Which of the following statements about 'Exercise Mitra Shakti-2023' are correct?
- This was a joint military exercise between India and Bangladesh.
- It commenced in Aundh (Pune).
- Joint response during counter-terrorism operations was a goal of this operation.
- Indian Air Force was a part of this exercise. Select the answer using the code given below:
Correct Answer: Option D
Exercise Mitra Shakti-2023 was a joint military exercise between India and Sri Lanka, conducted from November 16th to 29th, 2023.
The Indian contingent consisted of 120 personnel, mainly from the MARATHA LIGHT INFANTRY Regiment, while the Sri Lankan side was represented by personnel from the 53 Infantry Division.
Statement 1 is not correct: The exercise was between India and Sri Lanka, not Bangladesh.
The ninth edition of Exercise MITRA SHAKTI-2023 commenced in Aundh (Pune).
Statement 2 is correct.
The aim of the exercise was to jointly rehearse sub-conventional operations under Chapter VII of the United Nations Charter, focusing on synergizing joint responses during counter-terrorism operations. Tactical actions practiced included raids, search and destroy missions, and heliborne operations.
Statement 3 is correct.
15 personnel from the Indian Air Force and 5 from the Sri Lankan Air Force also participated in the exercise. The exercise also involved the use of drones, counter-unmanned aerial systems, and helicopters. Drills were conducted to secure helipads and practice casualty evacuation during counter-terrorism operations.
Statement 4 is correct.
Hence, option (d) is the correct answer.