In a notable feat of collaboration, the Indian Army’s Para (Special Forces) and the Indian Navy’s Marine Commandos (MARCOS) have executed a highly challenging high-altitude combat diving exercise in Sikkim from August 30 to September 5, 2025. Conducted at an elevation of 17,000 feet, the training pushed the limits of endurance and adaptability of India’s elite troops in one of the world’s most demanding operational environments.
The exercise took place under extreme conditions, where participants faced sub-zero temperatures, reduced oxygen levels, and near-freezing glacial waters. Throughout the week, commandos engaged in various combat diving operations, which included:
– Open circuit air diving for conventional underwater tasks.
– Closed circuit pure oxygen diving, facilitating stealthy insertions without leaving visible traces.
– Night combat dives to simulate infiltration missions under restricted visibility.
Diving to depths of 17 meters in frigid waters tested not only physical endurance but also psychological resilience.
Defense officials indicated that the rugged terrain served to challenge stamina and underwater proficiency while also enhancing tactical precision and interoperability among the forces. This exercise integrated the specialized diving skills of MARCOS with the mountain warfare expertise of Para (SF), setting a new standard for joint special operations training.
The significance of this exercise is underscored by the current security landscape faced by India, which includes potential cross-border threats in the Himalayas and maritime challenges in the Indian Ocean. The partnership between Para (SF) and MARCOS exemplifies the ability to collaborate effectively across diverse terrains—ranging from icy glaciers to jungles and desert environments.
A team commander emphasized that the drills not only honed endurance and mental toughness but also reinforced their readiness for a variety of missions, including covert reconnaissance, sabotage, high-risk rescues, and rapid-response operations. He remarked, “This exercise embodies the essence of combat preparedness. It proves that our elite soldiers can operate effectively in any environment, no matter how harsh or demanding.”
Experts have noted that high-altitude combat diving training is rare on a global scale, and this initiative signifies India’s commitment to fostering multi-terrain readiness. The exercise is expected to serve as a prototype for future joint training modules that focus on adaptability, interoperability, and effective resource-sharing.
Overall, the Sikkim combat diving drill highlights India’s dedication to strengthening its special operations capabilities, ensuring that its elite forces remain prepared for a broad spectrum of modern conflict scenarios.
