Banyuwangi: Indian and Indonesian Special Forces have conducted simulated combat tracking and drone surveillance exercises in jungle terrain during Exercise Garuda Shakti 2026 in Banyuwangi, Indonesia. The training focused on tracking enemy movements, using drones for surveillance and improving coordination between the two countries’ elite military forces.
Exercise Garuda Shakti 2026 Focuses On Jungle Warfare
The latest training activities took place on October 31, 2026, as part of the 11th edition of the India-Indonesia Joint Special Forces Exercise Garud Shakti.
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During the exercise, soldiers from both countries practised identifying and following target movements by carefully studying ground signs and other clues in dense jungle areas.
This type of training helps special forces understand difficult terrain and track targets even when visibility is limited.
Exercise Garuda Shakti 2026: Indian And Indonesian Forces Practise Drone Surveillance
Along with traditional tracking techniques, the troops also received training in the operational use of drones.
The drones were used for surveillance, reconnaissance and improving situational awareness in dense jungle environments.
These technologies can help soldiers observe surrounding areas, gather useful information and understand possible threats without exposing personnel unnecessarily. The training combined traditional jungle field skills with modern surveillance technology.
According to the Indian Embassy in Jakarta, the activities brought together traditional fieldcraft and specialised technologies to improve the operational capabilities of both forces.
Exercise Garuda Shakti 2026: Special Forces Conduct Jungle Patrolling And Heliborne Operations
The joint training also included tactical patrolling exercises in jungle terrain. Indian and Indonesian troops practised different stages of heliborne operations, starting with rapid insertion from helicopters and securing landing zones.
The soldiers then conducted tactical patrols and rehearsed mission execution in challenging jungle conditions.
These activities were designed to improve coordination and build confidence between the two Special Forces units. They also provided an opportunity for both sides to exchange operational knowledge and learn from each other’s military practices.
Exercise Garuda Shakti 2026: Live-Fire Training Strengthens Combat Skills
Earlier, on October 29, Indian and Indonesian Special Forces personnel participated in live-fire training activities in Banyuwangi.
The training included combat marksmanship, sniper firing and rapid transition firing while moving. These drills were designed to improve shooting accuracy, reaction speed and individual combat skills.
Such activities are important for special forces personnel who may need to operate in challenging situations during counter-terrorism and other special operations.
India And Indonesia Strengthen Military Cooperation
Exercise Garud Shakti 2026 began on October 27 in Banyuwangi, Indonesia, and is scheduled to continue until November 6, 2026.
The Indian contingent consists of troops from the Parachute Regiment (Special Forces), while Indonesia is represented by personnel from its Special Forces.
According to the Ministry of Defence, the exercise focuses on improving mutual understanding, cooperation and interoperability between the armed forces of both countries.
The wider training programme includes obstacle crossing, combat marksmanship, mountaineering, air assault training and combat-hardening sessions.
Both countries are also exchanging knowledge about weapons, military equipment and operational procedures.
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FAQs
Exercise Garud Shakti 2026 is being conducted in Banyuwangi, Indonesia. The joint military exercise is scheduled to run from October 27 to November 6, 2026.
Exercise Garud Shakti 2026 is the 11th edition of the joint Special Forces military exercise between India and Indonesia. It focuses on jungle warfare, combat skills, surveillance and improving military cooperation.
Indian and Indonesian Special Forces are conducting jungle combat tracking, drone surveillance, reconnaissance, tactical patrolling, live-fire training, sniper firing and heliborne operations to improve their joint combat readiness.
