India to assist Tanzania in raising a mechanised infantry battalion

As part of their deepening military cooperation, India is set to aid Tanzania in establishing a mechanized infantry battalion. This collaboration was discussed during the visit of Tanzania's Chief of Defence Forces, General Jacob John Mkunda, to India last month. The Tanzanian military chief, accompanied by a 15-member delegation, toured India's Mechanised Infantry Centre and School in Ahmednagar. The visit included insights into mechanized infantry warfare, live demonstrations showcasing firepower and mobility, and discussions on combat tactics and weapons handling.

India's Mechanized Infantry Regiment, equipped with armoured vehicles, integrates infantry mobility with potent firepower and protection, facilitating swift troop deployment on the battlefield. General Mkunda's visit follows increased defence engagement between India and Tanzania, exemplified by Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan's visit to India in October. Earlier engagements, including the Tanzanian defence minister's visits to India in August 2022 and February 2023, and the Indian Army chief's visit to Tanzania in October 2023, underscore the deepening ties in the defence sector.

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India and Tanzania have strengthened military relations through mutual training opportunities. Tanzanian forces regularly participate in India's UN Peacekeeping training, reflecting their commitment to enhancing peacekeeping skills. Since 2017, an Indian Army Training Team has been stationed at Tanzania's Command and Staff College in Duluti.

Tanzanian delegations have notably attended major military events in India, such as Aero India 23, Indo Africa Army Chiefs Conclave-23, and AFINDEX-23. India's outreach to Africa for defence collaboration has gained momentum, particularly through the India-Africa Defence Dialogue (IADD) held on the sidelines of DefExpo, attracting participation from various defence ministers.

The inaugural India-Africa Defence Ministers Conclave in Lucknow in February 2020 resulted in the 'Lucknow Declaration,' outlining collaborative areas in capacity building, training, cybersecurity, maritime security, and counter-terrorism.

भारत एक यंत्रीकृत पैदल सेना बटालियन स्थापित करने में तंजानिया की सहायता करेगा