The Indian Army PARA (Special Forces) and the Indian Navy MARINE COMMANDOS (MARCOS) carried out a joint scuba and combat diving exercise at an altitude of 17,000 feet in Sikkim from 30 August to 5 September 2025.
The week-long training included open circuit air diving, closed circuit pure oxygen diving, dives up to 17 metres in extreme cold-water conditions, and combat night diving.
Conducted in treacherous terrain and freezing waters, the exercise tested the adaptability and endurance of the participants while reinforcing operational readiness. The high-altitude conditions added unique challenges, pushing the limits of combat diving capability.
According to the defence statement, such exercises are crucial to prepare soldiers for diverse battlefield scenarios. They strengthen resilience, sharpen specialised combat skills, and enhance joint operations between the Services, ensuring India’s elite forces remain mission-ready across different terrains, from the Himalayas to the seas.
The Team Commander said the training tested every aspect of endurance, skill, and mental strength, and highlighted the spirit of jointmanship and preparedness of the elite forces.
, Navy MARCOS Conduct High-Altitude Combat Diving Training In Sikkim){kind=link}