Indian Army PARA (SF) and Navy MARCOS Conduct Rare Combat Diving Drill at 17,000 Feet in Sikkim

Gangtok, Sept 2025 : In a remarkable display of endurance and jointmanship, the Indian Army’s PARA (Special Forces) and the Indian Navy’s Marine Commandos (MARCOS) successfully carried out a rare high-altitude combat diving exercise in Sikkim at 17,000 feet above sea level. The challenging drill, conducted between August 30 and September 5, tested the extreme limits of operational readiness in freezing Himalayan waters.

The week-long exercise featured advanced combat diving techniques including open-circuit air diving, closed-circuit pure oxygen diving, dives up to a depth of 17 metres, and night dives in sub-zero conditions. Officials said the training was undertaken in treacherous terrain, highlighting the adaptability, courage, and professionalism of both elite forces.

A Defence PRO noted that operating in such rarefied air and icy waters expands combat capability, preparing soldiers for unpredictable battlefields of the future. “These drills demonstrate our ability to adapt to extreme environments while reinforcing the joint operational readiness of India’s Special Forces,” the official said.

According to the Army, high-altitude combat diving is critical to ensuring troops can operate seamlessly across diverse terrains — from the Himalayan frontiers to the oceans. The exercise not only honed specialised combat skills but also strengthened interoperability between the Army and Navy, underscoring the importance of synergy in modern warfare.

The deliberately chosen environment added immense physiological and logistical challenges, pushing soldiers to their limits. Officials explained that tasks under such conditions demand resilience, versatility, and mental toughness — attributes essential for high-risk special operations.

The Team Commander of the exercise highlighted the broader significance: “Training in these extreme conditions tests every aspect of a soldier’s endurance, skill and mental strength. It ensures that our teams are fully prepared to operate effectively in any environment, no matter how harsh or demanding. This exercise reflects the spirit of jointmanship and the commitment of our elite forces to remain ready for every challenge.”

The PARA (SF) and MARCOS are among India’s most seasoned forces, with unmatched expertise in missions ranging from high-altitude warfare to deep-sea operations. Their joint training in Sikkim demonstrates India’s emphasis on versatility and preparedness in an evolving security environment.

Through this rare combat diving exercise, India’s Special Forces reaffirmed their readiness to defend the nation’s frontiers across every possible domain — land, sea, and beyond.

Team Maverick.