In this image posted on March 10, 2026, personnel of the Indian Armed Forces and Seychelles Defence Forces pose for a group photograph during the opening ceremony of the 11th edition of India-Seychelles joint military exercise LAMITIYE at the Seychelles Defence Academy in Seychelles. Photo: X/@adgpi via PTI
The ongoing 11th edition of the India–Seychelles Joint Military Exercise LAMITIYE-2026, being conducted at the Seychelles Defence Academy from March 10 to 22, witnessed extensive professional exchanges and joint training aimed at strengthening defence cooperation between the two countries.
According to Indian Army, this year’s exercise marks the first tri-services edition, bringing together personnel from the Indian Army, Navy and Air Force alongside the Seychelles Defence Forces (SDF).
The joint training focuses on enhancing interoperability in sub-conventional operations in semi-urban environments, particularly within the framework of United Nations peacekeeping missions.
The trainings
A series of professional interactions, tactical discussions and practical drills have been conducted as part of the exercise. Training modules have included counter-terrorism operations, with Indian Army officers presenting a detailed case study of a major operation that highlighted operational planning, intelligence-based targeting and inter-agency coordination in complex terrain.
Participants have also undertaken training on cordon and search operations in urban and semi-urban areas, focusing on planning procedures, area domination, search techniques and crowd management while ensuring the safety of civilians.
Operational demonstrations have been a key component of the exercise. Troops from both sides have conducted close-quarter battle and room intervention drills, practising coordinated tactical entry techniques and assault procedures under simulated operational conditions. A specialised drill simulating a hijacked bus scenario showcased rapid response tactics and coordinated decision-making required in hostage situations.
The exercise has also covered emerging operational domains and support capabilities. Sessions on humanitarian assistance and disaster relief highlighted the role of helicopters in casualty evacuation, supply delivery and aerial reconnaissance during disasters. Discussions on the use of artificial intelligence in disaster management and tactical combat casualty care were also conducted.
In addition, personnel were exposed to maritime security operations, with the Seychelles Coast Guard demonstrating Visit, Board, Search and Seizure procedures used to intercept suspicious vessels.
Exercise LAMITIYE-2026 continues to reinforce bilateral defence ties and promote cooperation in addressing regional security challenges in the Indian Ocean Region.
Published – March 14, 2026 03:16 am IST
