Chennai: India and Myanmar have successfully concluded their first-ever bilateral Tri-Services Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) exercise, Exercise Rahat Mitra, in Chennai.
Conducted on November 5 and 6, 2026, the exercise brought together personnel from the Indian Army, Navy and Air Force, along with members of the Myanmar Defence Forces. It aimed to improve joint disaster response capabilities, strengthen defence cooperation and enhance coordination during natural disasters and humanitarian emergencies.
Exercise Rahat Mitra: Key Highlights
The two-day exercise focused on improving cooperation between the armed forces of India and Myanmar. It provided an opportunity for both countries to share their experiences, understand each other’s capabilities and practise joint disaster response operations.
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More than 300 personnel from the defence forces of both countries participated in the inaugural exercise. The Indian Navy coordinated the exercise.
The exercise was conducted under the theme “Together for Humanity, Stronger Through Partnership.”
Major Activities During Exercise Rahat Mitra 2026
The exercise began with joint planning sessions and familiarisation with Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) capabilities.
A Table-Top Exercise (TTX) was also conducted based on a severe cyclone scenario. It helped participants discuss joint response plans, disaster management procedures and coordination during emergency situations.
The Myanmar delegation also witnessed demonstrations of the Indian Army’s obstacle clearance and bridge-laying capabilities. They visited INS Sukanya to understand the Indian Navy’s ship-based disaster relief capabilities.
Multi-Domain Disaster Response Demonstrations
On the second day, Indian Defence Forces demonstrated their disaster response capabilities across three major domains: land, sea and air.
INS Adyar and the Communication Network Centre in Chennai showcased shore-based disaster response arrangements and communication systems. These systems help maintain command and control during emergencies.
The Military Hospital in Chennai demonstrated field medical triage procedures and the management of disaster relief camps.
Indian Navy Demonstrates Flood Relief And Rescue Capabilities
The Indian Navy’s Flood Relief Teams (FRT) demonstrated specialised equipment and techniques used during flood emergencies.
Maritime Search and Rescue (SAR) capabilities were also demonstrated through coordinated operations involving a Chetak helicopter and INS Bitra.
These demonstrations highlighted the Navy’s ability to support rescue operations and provide assistance during maritime emergencies.
Indian Air Force Demonstrates Casualty Evacuation
The Indian Air Force demonstrated its casualty evacuation capabilities using an Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH).
During the airborne demonstration, Commodore Aung Niang Win and two other officers from the Myanmar delegation travelled onboard the Indian Air Force helicopter.
The demonstration highlighted the importance of air support in rescuing injured people and moving them to safer locations during disasters.
FAQs
Exercise Rahat Mitra was conducted in Chennai on November 5 and 6, 2026. The two-day exercise brought together defence personnel from India and Myanmar.
Exercise Rahat Mitra is the first bilateral Tri-Services Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) exercise between India and Myanmar. It aims to improve joint disaster response capabilities and strengthen defence cooperation.
The main objective is to improve coordination, operational interoperability and disaster response capabilities between the armed forces of India and Myanmar. It also promotes cooperation during natural disasters and humanitarian emergencies.
