Harimau Shakti 2025 Begins in Rajasthan: India Malaysia Joint Military Exercise

Harimau Shakti 2025: India–Malaysia Joint Exercise Strengthens Counter-Terror Preparedness

The fifth edition of Exercise Harimau Shakti 2025 commenced at the Mahajan Field Firing Range in Rajasthan, running from 5 to 18 December 2025 . The bilateral drill reinforces operational cooperation between the Indian Army and the Royal Malaysian Army , with structured joint training designed to enhance readiness for UN-mandated peacekeeping and counter-terror missions.

Participating Units and Training Objectives

India is represented by troops of the Dogra Regiment , while Malaysia has deployed soldiers from the 25th Battalion of the Royal Malaysian Army . The overarching aim is to rehearse sub-conventional operations under Chapter VII of the UN Charter , emphasising coordinated responses to complex counter-terrorist situations and stabilisation tasks.

Combat Drills and Tactical Engagements

The exercise includes a range of tactical activities such as cordon-and-search missions , precision destroy tasks and heliborne insertion operations . Personnel will also undergo Army Martial Arts Routine (AMAR) , combat reflex shooting and structured Yoga sessions to bolster combat fitness and situational focus. Additional modules cover helipad security , casualty evacuation (CASEVAC) procedures and operational planning under realistic battlefield conditions.

Boosting Interoperability and Joint Preparedness

Harimau Shakti 2025 aims to synchronise operational drills, communication protocols and tactical decision-making between the participating forces. Enhanced interoperability is expected to reduce operational risks and improve mission success rates, especially during multinational UN peacekeeping deployments .

Exam Oriented Facts

• 5th edition of Exercise Harimau Shakti

• Venue: Mahajan Field Firing Range, Rajasthan

• Dates: 5–18 December 2025

• Troops: Dogra Regiment (India) & 25th Battalion RMA (Malaysia)

• Focus: Sub-conventional operations under UN Chapter VII

Strengthening Bilateral Defence Engagement

The exercise deepens long-standing defence ties between India and Malaysia. By sharing best practices in counter-terror operations and fieldcraft, Harimau Shakti supports regional stability and strengthens collaborative military capabilities.