The first bilateral tri-service Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) exercise 'Rahat Mitra' held between the defence forces of India and Myanmar on November 5 and 6, 2026, successfully concluded in Chennai. According to an official release, personnel from the Indian Navy, Army, and Air Force, along with a contingent from the Myanmar defence forces, participated in this two-day exercise.
The main objective of this exercise was to enhance operational interoperability, improve coordination, and encourage the exchange of best practices in disaster response operations. The beginning focused on joint planning and familiarization with Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief capabilities.
Demonstration of Disaster Response and Military Capabilities
During the exercise, coordinated response mechanisms and joint disaster management protocols were discussed through a table-top exercise based on a severe cyclone scenario. Participating contingents witnessed a demonstration of obstacle clearance and bridge construction capabilities by the Indian Army.
The contingent visited INS Sukanya to learn about the ship-based capabilities of the Indian Navy. On the second day, a coordinated response mechanism was demonstrated across maritime, land, and air domains, with INS Adyar, the communication network center in Chennai, and the military hospital also showcasing their arrangements.
Practice of Relief and Rescue Operations
Flood relief teams of the Indian Navy demonstrated special equipment. Chetak helicopters and INS Bitra participated in coordinated maneuvers as part of maritime search and rescue capabilities, while the Indian Air Force demonstrated casualty evacuation capabilities.
During this, Myanmar delegation's Commodore Aung Nyang Win and two other officers flew aboard an Indian Air Force ALH helicopter during air operations.