India is actively contributing to Tanzania’s military capabilities by assisting in the establishment of a mechanized infantry battalion, a pivotal step in their expanding military cooperation. General Jacob John Mkunda, Chief of Defence Forces for Tanzania, visited India last month, marking a significant development in the strengthening ties between the two nations.
During his visit, General Mkunda and a 15-member delegation had toured the Mechanised Infantry Centre and School in Ahmednagar. The purpose behind the tour was to gain insights into various aspects of mechanized infantry warfare. Live demonstrations showcased the firepower and mobility of infantry combat vehicles, emphasizing combat tactics and weapons handling.
Mechanized Infantry Regiment
The Mechanized Infantry Regiment of the Indian Army, with its equipped armoured vehicles, seamlessly integrates infantry mobility with potent firepower and mechanized forces’ protection. This capability allows for swift troop deployment across the battlefield, underscoring its critical role in contemporary military operations.
Before arriving in Ahmednagar, General Mkunda engaged in discussions in Delhi with Indian Army Chief Manoj Pande and other high-ranking officials. This visit follows a series of strategic engagements, including Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s visit to India in October, the visit of Tanzania’s defence minister to India in August 2022 and February 2023, and the Indian Army chief’s visit to Tanzania in October 2023.
Defence Cooperation between India and Tanzania
Military ties between India and Tanzania have been further solidified through the exchange of training opportunities. Tanzanian forces consistently participate in India’s UN Peacekeeping training, demonstrating their commitment to enhancing peacekeeping skills. Since 2017, an Indian Army Training Team has been stationed at Tanzania’s Command and Staff College in Duluti.
It has been reported previously that Tanzanian delegations have actively participated in major military events in India, including Aero India 23, Indo Africa Army Chiefs Conclave-23, and AFINDEX-23. The India-Africa Defence Dialogue, held biennially, is gaining momentum, with the third edition expected later this year.
Defence Cooperation with Africa
India’s commitment to fostering defence collaboration and capacity building in Africa is evident through initiatives like the India-Africa Defence Dialogue (IADD). The inaugural India-Africa Defence Ministers Conclave in Lucknow in February 2020 resulted in the ‘Lucknow Declaration,’ outlining collaboration areas such as capacity building, training, cybersecurity, maritime security, and counter-terrorism. This dialogue, held on the sidelines of DefExpo, has witnessed active participation from several defence ministers, further solidifying India’s outreach to Africa in the realm of defence.