India, Singapore test tank warfare skills

New Delhi, March 27 (IANS) Soldiers from Indian and Singaporean armed forces are testing their armoured warfare skills in Babina in central India with over 750 soldiers from both sides joining the drill that will end Friday.

As part of their eighth bilateral military exercise, Bold Kurukshetra, the troops from both the armed forces have been training in tank battles for nearly a month now, according to a release from the Indian Army here Tuesday.

'As part of the exercise, the two armies are conducting joint planning, training as well as executing integrated manoeuvres. The exercise also includes integrated live firing of infantry combat vehicles, main battle tanks and mortars,' the release said.

The exercise is held annually and underscores the growing defence relationship between Singapore and India. Apart from the joint exercises, the Indian Army and the Singaporean armed forces also interact regularly through visits, courses, seminars and other professional exchanges.

'The exercise is expected to further cement the defence relationship and add impetus to the ongoing defence cooperation. Maintenance of enhanced military-to-military contacts is mutually beneficial to the strategic interests of both the countries,' the release added.