Indo-Russian joint military exercise underway

Jaipur: Russian troops have carried out live firing practice using Indian military equipment as part of joint military exercise `INDRA 2013` at Mahajan field firing range near India-Pakistan border in Thar desert of Rajasthan.

Indian and Russian soldiers interacted with each other to know about specific defence tactics like tank zeroing procedures. The Russian Commanding officer also interacted with his Indian counterparts at the firing ranges. Russian troops are set for a tank firing competition scheduled for October 24, according to a defence PRO. The Mechanised Infantry component of both contingent participated in a small arms firing competition in the newly built firing range of the South Western Command Headquarters. The competition involved firing of a mechanised infantry section of both the armies, controlled by section commanders. A volleyball match was also held to enhance the spirit of sports and camaraderie between the troops. Indian Brigade commander and his Russian counterpart gave away prizes to both the teams. The exercise, which began on October 19, is aimed at improving bilateral defence cooperation between both the armies and enhancing their ability to operate as an integrated force within the framework of UN Peace Keeping operations (UNPKO).