India is playing a proactive role in bolstering Tanzania’s military capabilities by aiding in the formation of a mechanized infantry battalion, a crucial advancement in their growing military partnership. General Jacob John Mkunda, Chief of Defence Forces for Tanzania, recently visited India, marking a noteworthy milestone in the deepening relations between the two countries.
Throughout his visit, General Mkunda, accompanied by a 15-member delegation, toured the Mechanised Infantry Centre and School in Ahmednagar. The objective of the tour was to acquire comprehensive insights into different facets of mechanized infantry warfare. Live demonstrations were conducted to exhibit the firepower and mobility of infantry combat vehicles, underscoring the importance of combat tactics and proficiency in handling weapons.
Mechanized Infantry Regiment
The Mechanized Infantry Regiment of the Indian Army, utilizing its armored vehicles, effectively combines infantry mobility with formidable firepower and protection for mechanized forces. This capability facilitates rapid troop deployment across the battlefield, highlighting its crucial role in modern military operations.
Prior to reaching Ahmednagar, General Mkunda participated in discussions in Delhi with Indian Army Chief Manoj Pande and other senior officials. This visit is part of a sequence of strategic engagements, including Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s trip to India in October, Tanzania’s defense minister’s visits to India in August 2022 and February 2023, and the visit of the Indian Army chief to Tanzania in October 2023.
Defence Cooperation between India and Tanzania
The military cooperation between India and Tanzania has been strengthened through the exchange of training opportunities. Tanzanian forces consistently engage in India’s UN Peacekeeping training, showcasing their dedication to improving peacekeeping skills. Since 2017, an Indian Army Training Team has been stationed at Tanzania’s Command and Staff College in Duluti.
Earlier reports have indicated that Tanzanian delegations have played an active role in significant military events in India, such as Aero India 23, Indo Africa Army Chiefs Conclave-23, and AFINDEX-23. The India-Africa Defence Dialogue, held every two years, is gaining traction, with the anticipation of its third edition later this year.
Defence Cooperation with Africa
India’s dedication to promoting defense collaboration and capacity building in Africa is apparent through initiatives like the India-Africa Defence Dialogue (IADD). The first India-Africa Defence Ministers Conclave took place in Lucknow in February 2020, leading to the formulation of the ‘Lucknow Declaration.’ This declaration delineates areas of collaboration, including capacity building, training, cybersecurity, maritime security, and counter-terrorism. The dialogue, conducted on the sidelines of DefExpo, has seen enthusiastic involvement from numerous defense ministers, reinforcing India’s engagement with Africa in the defense sector.
