India-US ‘Tiger Triumph-24’ Exercise Wraps Up, Focus on Disaster Relief Operations

Officials announced the successful conclusion of the 14-day bilateral tri-service exercise between India and the US, dubbed ‘Tiger Triumph-24’, aimed at enhancing interoperability for humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HADR) operations.

The exercise, commencing on March 18, focused on refining standard operating procedures to facilitate swift coordination between the armed forces of both nations.

The Indian Army, represented by a battalion group, actively participated in the second edition of the tri-service exercise held in Visakhapatnam and Kakinada, Andhra Pradesh, alongside counterparts from the Indian Navy and the Indian Air Force.

The closing ceremony of the exercise took place onboard USS Somerset on March 30, marking the culmination of joint efforts towards strengthening the strategic partnership between India and the US.

‘Tiger Triumph-24’ underscored the robust strategic partnership between India and the US, emphasizing the exchange of best practices and standard operating procedures crucial for multinational HADR operations.

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The harbor phase, conducted in Visakhapatnam from March 18-25, encompassed various activities such as pre-sail discussions, subject matter expert exchange, sports engagements, and cultural exchanges like celebrating Holi together.

From March 26-30, the sea phase witnessed maritime exercises involving units from both countries. This phase included the landing of troops at Kakinada to establish a joint command and control center and a relief and medical camp for HADR operations.

The exercise also featured cross-deck helicopter operations between the Indian Navy and the US Navy, showcasing seamless coordination between the two forces.

The Indian Navy contributed a diverse range of assets including landing platform docks, landing ship tanks, guided missile frigates, and long-range maritime reconnaissance aircraft.

The Indian Army deployed infantry battalion groups and mechanized forces, while the Indian Air Force provided medium-lift aircraft, transport helicopters, and the Rapid Action Medical Team (RAMT).

The US Task Force included a landing platform dock, destroyer, maritime reconnaissance, and medium-lift aircraft, along with US Marines.

Special Operations forces from both countries actively participated in combined operations, demonstrating joint capabilities during the harbor and sea phases at Visakhapatnam and Kakinada.

‘Tiger Triumph-24’ exemplified the shared commitment of India and the US towards enhancing disaster response capabilities and fostering closer defense cooperation.