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Joint military exercise between the Indian Army and the Malaysian Army entered its crucial Field Training Exercise phase on 8th December
NEW DELHI: The joint military exercise Harimau Shakti 2024 between the Indian Army and the Malaysian Army entered its crucial Field Training Exercise (FTX) phase on 8th December, following the successful completion of the Command Post Exercise (CTX) phase. This annual bilateral exercise, which began on 2nd December 2024, is focused on enhancing the joint operational capabilities of both armies in jungle warfare, with particular emphasis on counter-insurgency operations in rugged terrain.
The CTX phase, which took place earlier in the Harimau Shakti 2024 exercise, comprised theory lectures and demonstrations aimed at familiarizing both Indian and Malaysian troops with key concepts in jungle warfare. This phase played a vital role in setting the foundation for practical training, equipping the soldiers with essential knowledge on ambush tactics, counter-ambush strategies, and various techniques to raid enemy camps.
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The lectures and live demonstrations focused on improving tactical coordination and strengthening the ability to perform in high-pressure combat scenarios. The soldiers were taught methods to execute critical operations while navigating dense jungle terrains, preparing them for the more complex challenges they would face in the FTX phase.
On 8th December, the FTX phase of the Harimau Shakti 2024 exercise officially commenced with the induction of both Indian and Malaysian contingents into the exercise area. This phase is designed to test the practical application of the theories learned during the CTX phase, putting the soldiers through real-time combat simulations in a controlled environment.
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The second day of the FTX saw both armies send out Fighting Patrols and Reconnaissance (Recce) Patrols from their respective Harbour/Operating Bases to gather critical intelligence on the enemy. These patrols were tasked with identifying enemy positions and assessing the terrain. In addition to these patrols, soldiers also engaged in routine operations, such as the preparation of fire trenches, setting up booby traps, and placing claymores and panjis. These routine tasks are essential for fortifying defensive positions and creating a secure environment for the troops.
During the exercise, the Fighting Patrols successfully neutralized nine enemy militants, demonstrating the tactical proficiency gained through the previous phases of training. However, the exercise also simulated the harsh realities of combat, with the patrol suffering casualties during the engagement. To address this, a Casualty Evacuation (CAS Evac) drill was promptly carried out, testing the joint forces’ ability to evacuate injured personnel under battlefield conditions. This drill is critical to ensure that medical assistance can be rendered swiftly in the event of real combat situations.
A significant part of the exercise involved setting up joint ambush operations. Three ambush parties, each comprising platoon-strength units from both the Indian Army and Malaysian Army, were tasked with laying ambushes to neutralize enemy forces. These ambush operations were meticulously planned through joint map enlargement and the creation of sand models, which helped soldiers visualize the terrain and better understand tactical deployment. The planning process included issuing orders at the platoon and section levels, with both armies contributing to the overall strategy.
The joint efforts in preparing and executing these ambushes fostered greater cooperation and improved interoperability between the two armies. The mutual trust and understanding developed during such operations are key to strengthening bilateral defense relations and enhancing the readiness of both forces to operate together in future joint operations.
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This year’s edition has already proved to be a milestone in fostering joint military capabilities, and the remaining days will witness more advanced joint drills and simulated operations aimed at reinforcing the defense relationship between the two nations.
The success of Harimau Shakti 2024 further strengthens the partnership between India and Malaysia, symbolizing the enduring friendship and shared commitment to regional security.
