IDAHO, Nov 4:    The 15th edition of Exercise Vajra Prahar kicked off on Monday at the Orchid Combat Training Centre in Idaho, marking a notable advancement in military cooperation between India and the United States. This joint Special Forces exercise aims to improve interoperability and facilitate the exchange of best practices between the elite units of both countries, as reported by the Indian Army’s Additional Directorate General of Public Information (ADG PI).

During the opening ceremony, the military teams from both nations introduced themselves, shared cultural insights, and strengthened their bonds of friendship and respect. A highlight of the event was a joint celebration of Deepawali, during which the Indian contingent shared sweets with their US counterparts, emphasizing the spirit of camaraderie and cultural exchange.

The ADG PI provided details on social media, stating, “The opening ceremony of the 15th edition of Exercise Vajra Prahar 2024 was held at the Orchid Combat Training Centre in Idaho, USA. Contingents introduced themselves, shared cultural insights, and were briefed about the conduct of the exercise. In the spirit of Deepawali, the Indian contingent exchanged sweets with the US contingent to celebrate the festival together.”

Running from November 2 to November 22, Exercise Vajra Prahar features 45 personnel from each country’s Special Forces. The Indian Army is represented by its Special Forces units, while the US Army has deployed its elite Green Berets. The focus of the training will be on improving cooperation, joint operational capabilities, and sharing special operations tactics, particularly in desert and semi-desert environments.

This edition follows the last exercise held in Umroi, Meghalaya, in December 2023 and is the second joint exercise between the Indian and US armies this year, after Exercise Yudh Abhyas took place in Rajasthan in September 2024.