India and Malaysia to Hold Harimau Shakti 2026

India and Malaysia are scheduled to conduct the 2026 edition of their joint military exercise, Harimau Shakti, from November 18 to 30. The Indian Army confirmed the planned drills, which aim to strengthen military cooperation, improve interoperability and foster mutual understanding between the two armies.

Exercise focus and previous edition

The 2026 exercise follows the fifth iteration, which concluded in December 2025 at the Mahajan Field Firing Range in Rajasthan. The 2025 drills focused on combined tactical activities and sub-conventional operations under a United Nations mandate. Troops practised the Army Martial Arts Routine (AMAR), helicopter slithering, low-hover jumps from MI-17 helicopters and counter-improvised explosive device techniques.

Bilateral military engagement

Harimau Shakti has been conducted annually since 2012, alternating between India and Malaysia. The exercise focuses on jungle warfare and counter-insurgency operations, and is intended to improve coordination and operational synergy between the armies.

Important Facts for Exams

• UN peacekeeping command structure: In UN peacekeeping, troop-contributing countries retain national command, while operational control is delegated through the UN chain to the mission force commander.
• Jungle-warfare training institution: The Indian Army’s Counter Insurgency and Jungle Warfare School at Vairengte, Mizoram, conducts specialised training for Indian personnel and visiting foreign forces.
• Bilateral defence framework: India and Malaysia formalised defence cooperation through a memorandum signed in 1993, providing a framework for military exchanges and collaboration.
• Regional defence forum: India and Malaysia participate in the ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting-Plus, which brings ASEAN members together with eight external dialogue partners.