A battalion group of over 700 personnel from the Indian Army is actively participating in Exercise Tiger Triumph 2024, a joint amphibious exercise involving the Indian Navy and Indian Air Force. This is the third time Indian and US forces have come together for Tiger TRIUMPH, which stands for Tri-Services India- US Amphibious Exercise.
This 14-day exercise, launched on March 18, 2024, unfolds in two phases: the Harbour Phase held in Visakhapatnam and the Sea Phase in Kakinada.
According to sources in the defence and security establishment, “The primary aim of the exercise is to bolster interoperability, fortify bilateral ties, and refine capabilities in Humanitarian Aid and Disaster Relief (HADR) as well as sub-conventional operations.”
During the exercise, the Indian Army has skillfully demonstrated its amphibious capabilities in various scenarios, showcasing its strength through an integrated battalion group comprising infantry, mechanized infantry, Para SF, artillery, engineers, and other support arms. “The contingent has also unveiled newly acquired weapons and cutting-edge technological advancements,” sources quoted above said.
The Harbour Phase kick-started with communication checks to ensure smooth coordination among the participating forces. Personnel from both nations engaged in ship visits, fostering mutual understanding and sharing operational techniques. “As the exercise transitions to the Sea Phase, strategic maneuvers towards a simulated island country lay the groundwork for intricate operations, notably the ship-to-shore move.”
According to the sources, a significant aspect of the exercise is the establishment of an Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camp, underscoring the commitment of both forces to humanitarian assistance. This endeavor entails logistical challenges, emphasizing the importance of efficient planning in disaster relief operations.
Furthermore, joint drills focusing on sub-conventional operations are conducted to bolster operational capabilities in countering asymmetric threats. Convoy operations, IED drills, cordon and search operations, and counter-ambush drills underscore the forces’ readiness to tackle diverse challenges.
Exercise Tiger Triumph also facilitates Subject Matter Expert exchanges, cross-board visits, and friendly sports matches to foster camaraderie among troops. “Through this joint training with the US Defence Forces, both countries showcase interoperability, joint operational capabilities, and intelligence sharing, enhancing their preparedness for future challenges,” they added.