Vajra Prahar: Enhancing Indo-US Military Collaboration

Overview of the Vajra Prahar Exercise

The Vajra Prahar exercise aims to bolster the longstanding friendship and defense cooperation between India and the United States. This joint exercise focuses on counter-terrorism, airborne, and special operations.

Key Highlights of the Exercise

• Duration: The exercise will be conducted over a 21-day period.
• Edition: This marks the 14th iteration, following the previous exercise held in Bakloh, Himachal Pradesh, and the 12th edition conducted in the US.
• Phases: The first phase involves combat conditioning and tactical-level special mission training. This is followed by a 48-hour validation phase where the forces apply their learned skills.

Strategic Importance of the Exercise

The Vajra Prahar exercise holds significant security relevance for both India and the US. It addresses the contemporary security challenges faced by both nations in the current global landscape.

Regional Dynamics and Military Engagement

This exercise occurs amid escalating Indo-US military collaboration, particularly concerning the growing concerns over China's regional dominance. The implications of this collaboration extend to peace enforcement and humanitarian assistance efforts.

Recent Developments in Indo-US Military Cooperation

Previously, the Indian and US armies conducted the 19th edition of 'Yudh Abhyas' in Alaska. This exercise showcased interoperability and the effective training of personnel using advanced equipment, including the Chinook heavy-lift helicopter supplied to India by the US.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. What is the primary objective of the Vajra Prahar exercise?
Answer: The primary objective is to strengthen the bond of friendship and enhance defense cooperation between India and the US through joint special forces exercises focusing on counter-terrorism and special operations.

Q2. How long does the Vajra Prahar exercise last?
Answer: The Vajra Prahar exercise spans over a duration of 21 days, comprising multiple training phases aimed at enhancing military readiness.

Q3. When was the last edition of Vajra Prahar conducted?
Answer: The previous edition of the Vajra Prahar exercise took place in Bakloh, Himachal Pradesh, marking its 13th iteration before the current one.

Q4. What are the main phases involved in the exercise?
Answer: The exercise involves two main phases: initial combat conditioning and tactical-level training, followed by a 48-hour validation phase to test the learned skills.

Q5. Why is the Vajra Prahar exercise significant for India and the US?
Answer: It is significant as it addresses shared security challenges and enhances military interoperability amid rising concerns over regional stability and security dynamics, especially concerning China.

UPSC Practice MCQs

Question 1: What is the duration of the Vajra Prahar exercise?
A) 14 days
B) 21 days
C) 30 days
D) 45 days
Correct Answer: B

Question 2: Which phase follows the combat conditioning in Vajra Prahar?
A) Planning phase
B) 48-hour validation phase
C) Review phase
D) Debriefing phase
Correct Answer: B

Question 3: Where was the last edition of the Vajra Prahar exercise conducted?
A) Alaska
B) Himachal Pradesh
C) Gujarat
D) New Delhi
Correct Answer: B

Question 4: What is the focus of the Vajra Prahar exercise?
A) Humanitarian assistance
B) Counter-terrorism and special operations
C) Disaster management
D) Naval warfare
Correct Answer: B

Question 5: What recent military exercise was conducted prior to Vajra Prahar?
A) Yudh Abhyas
B) Vajra Shakti
C) Vayu Shakti
D) Surya Kiran
Correct Answer: A