Exercise Tiger Triumph 2025

The fourth edition of Exercise Tiger Triumph is set to take place from 1 to 13 April 2025 on the Eastern Seaboard of India. This bilateral tri-service exercise focuses on humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HADR) operations. It aims to enhance interoperability between Indian and US forces while developing standard operating procedures for effective coordination during crises.

Objectives of Exercise Tiger Triumph

The primary objective is to establish a Combined Coordination Center (CCC). This centre will facilitate rapid and efficient collaboration between Indian and US Joint Task Forces (JTF). The exercise aims to refine HADR skills and improve response times during emergencies.

Participating Forces

The Indian contingent will include naval ships such as INS Jalashwa, INS Gharial, INS Mumbai, and INS Shakti, equipped with helicopters and landing crafts. The Indian Army will contribute troops from the 91 Infantry Brigade and the 12 Mechanised Infantry Battalion. The Indian Air Force will deploy C-130 aircraft and MI-17 helicopters, along with a Rapid Action Medical Team (RAMT). The US side will be represented by US Navy Ships Comstock and Ralph Johnson, along with troops from the US Marine Division.

Harbour Phase Activities

The Harbour Phase will occur in Visakhapatnam from 1 to 7 April 2025. It will include an opening ceremony featuring a joint flag parade and media interactions on board INS Jalashwa. Participants will engage in training visits, subject matter expert exchanges, sports events, and social interactions to strengthen ties between the two nations.

Sea Phase Operations

Following the Harbour Phase, the Sea Phase will commence, focusing on maritime, amphibious, and HADR operations off Kakinada. A joint command and control centre will be established at the Kakinada Naval Enclave, facilitating coordinated efforts between the Indian Army and US Marines.

Medical Support and Aid

A joint medical camp will be set up by the Indian Air Force RAMT and the US Navy medical team. This camp will provide essential medical aid during the exercise, ensuring that both forces can effectively respond to medical emergencies.

Closing Ceremony

The exercise will conclude with a closing ceremony aboard the US Navy Ship Comstock on 13 April 2025 in Visakhapatnam. This event will mark the successful collaboration between India and the US in HADR operations.

Questions for UPSC:

1. Examine the significance of joint military exercises in enhancing international relations.
2. Discuss the role of humanitarian assistance in modern military operations.
3. What are the challenges faced by countries in coordinating disaster relief efforts? Analyse with examples.
4. Critically discuss the impact of joint training exercises on the preparedness of armed forces in responding to crises.

Answer Hints:

1. Examine the significance of joint military exercises in enhancing international relations.

1. Joint military exercises encourage trust and cooperation between participating nations.
2. They provide a platform for sharing knowledge and best practices in military operations.
3. Such exercises often lead to stronger diplomatic ties and strategic partnerships.
4. They enhance interoperability, enabling forces to work together effectively in crises.
5. Joint exercises can also deter aggression by showcasing military readiness and unity.

2. Discuss the role of humanitarian assistance in modern military operations.

1. Humanitarian assistance is crucial for building goodwill and trust among nations.
2. Military forces often provide rapid response capabilities in disaster situations.
3. HADR operations enhance the strategic and operational capabilities of armed forces.
4. They involve collaboration with civilian agencies, improving overall disaster response.
5. Humanitarian missions can lead to long-term stability in affected regions.

3. What are the challenges faced by countries in coordinating disaster relief efforts? Analyse with examples.

1. Differences in protocols and procedures among countries can hinder coordination.
2. Language barriers and cultural differences may affect communication and cooperation.
3. Resource allocation can be inefficient, leading to delays in aid delivery.
4. Political considerations may complicate international collaboration in disaster zones.
5. Examples include the varied responses to the 2010 Haiti earthquake and the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami.

4. Critically discuss the impact of joint training exercises on the preparedness of armed forces in responding to crises.

1. Joint training exercises improve tactical skills and operational readiness of forces.
2. They allow military personnel to experience real-world scenarios in a controlled environment.
3. Such exercises enhance communication and coordination between different military branches.
4. They identify gaps in capabilities and provide opportunities for improvement.
5. Overall, they contribute to a nation’s ability to respond effectively to crises.