The 16th edition of the Joint Special Forces Exercise “Vajra Prahar” between India and United States began at the Special Forces Training School, Bakloh, Himachal Pradesh. It will continue till 16 March 2026.
Purpose of the Exercise:
Strengthen military cooperation and strategic partnership between India and the US.
Enhance interoperability and joint operational readiness of special forces units.
Facilitate exchange of special operations tactics, techniques and procedures (TTPs).
Participants:
The Indian contingent comprises 45 personnel drawn from Indian Army Special Forces.
The US side is represented by 12 personnel from US Army Special Forces (Green Berets).
Training Focus:
Rigorous physical conditioning and joint mission planning.
Coordinated tactical drills in mountainous terrain.
Sharing of best practices and operational experiences.
Historical and Strategic Context:
First held in 2010, the Vajra Prahar series is a bilateral special forces exercise aimed at deepening defence cooperation.
The previous (15th) edition took place in Idaho, USA in November 2024.
This exercise highlights the growing military partnership between India and the United States amidst evolving regional security dynamics.
UPSC - 2027 - Prelims cum Mains - Foundation Course / Batch Starts on 15-04-2026 
