Source: ANI
Context: An Indian Armed Forces contingent has arrived in Seychelles to participate in the 11th edition of the joint military exercise Lamitiye 2026.
About Exercise Lamitiye 2026:
What it is?
- Exercise Lamitiye is a biennial joint military training exercise conducted between India and Seychelles to enhance operational coordination, tactical skills, and military cooperation.
- The term Lamitiye means Friendship in the Creole language, reflecting the close strategic and defence partnership between the two nations.
Host Country: Seychelles
Nations Involved: India and Seychelles
Aim:
- Enhance interoperability and coordination between Indian and Seychellois forces during joint military operations and peacekeeping missions.
- Improve tactical capabilities in handling sub-conventional threats in semi-urban environments.
Key Features:
- Tri-service participation – Involves the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force, highlighting integrated joint operations.
- Tactical training drills – Includes field exercises, combat discussions, demonstrations, and case studies.
- Semi-urban warfare focus – Troops train to neutralize threats in semi-urban and coastal environments.
- Technology showcase – Demonstration of new-generation military equipment and technologies.
- Validation phase – The exercise concludes with a two-day validation drill to test operational readiness.
- Capacity building – Facilitates exchange of skills, best practices, and operational experiences.
Significance:
- The exercise reinforces India’s strategic partnership with Seychelles, an important Indian Ocean maritime partner.
- Cooperation helps counter threats like piracy, illegal fishing, and maritime crime in the region.
- Supports India’s policy of Security and Growth for All in the Region (SAGAR) by promoting regional stability.
