Exercise Ajeya Warrior: From Snake Handling To An Intense Game Of Cricket

As part of an exercise, British and Indian Army troops joined forces to share their knowledge and expertise to enhance combat tactics on both sides.

Exercise Ajeya Warrior is held in the UK and India alternatively every two years, this year it was at the Mahajan Ranges in Rajasthan and the 20th Battalion of the Rajputana Rifles and the 1st Battalion the Royal Anglian Regiment (aka. The Vikings).

Ideas are pooled together with the aim to develop army-to-army links.

For example, the troops get to know one another’s kit and equipment which helps them understand each other’s experiences and tactics on operations.

There was even time for the UK Troops to be shown some snake handling techniques from their Indian counterparts.

Sport also plays a big part in the exercise. 

Both sides competed in basketball, football, volleyball and cricket matches, which the Vikings narrowly lost in a highly contested but enjoyable game.

Company Commander of B (Suffolk) Company of the Vikings said

"The hospitality shown by our friends in the Indian Army has been first class, and we are very grateful for the opportunity to work so closely together."

The UK Defence Advisor to New Delhi, Brigadier Mark Goldsack CBE, added:

"We face the same sets of threats, so opportunities like this are important for mutual understanding and for developing our ability to operate together.  These events are the embodiment of the living bridge between UK and India.”

This type of exercise is held across all three services, with the Royal Navy and Indian Navy partake in Exercise Konkan and the Royal Airforce and Indian Airforce partake in Exercise Indradanush.