Indian, Russian armies begin INDRA-2010 ops

To enhance the defence cooperation and military-to-military relations between the two armies, India and Russian joint military exercises focusing on counter- terrorism training began on Friday at Chaubattia in Uttarakhand.

The battalion-level exercise will last through October 24 and comprises infantry troops from both the armies who would work out insurgency and terrorism situations, and plan and execute an operation to counter these.

Russia has sent more than 257 troops from its 34th mountain brigade, based in the North Caucasus, to join the Indian troops in the INDRA 2010 drills.

The Russian troops will be equipped with lightweight Permyachka Infantry Suits, which protect at least 80 percent of the body surface from small-caliber bullets and low-speed shrapnel.

The Indian and Russian military have conducted joint INDRA exercises since 2003, including biannual peacekeeping drills