Indian Army PARA SF & Navy MARCOS Execute Rare High-Altitude Combat Diving in Sikkim

In a first-of-its-kind exercise, the Indian Army’s PARA (Special Forces) and the Indian Navy’s Marine Commandos (MARCOS) successfully carried out high-altitude combat diving training in Sikkim, pushing the limits of endurance and operational readiness.

The joint training was conducted at an altitude of nearly 17,000 feet, where icy waters and harsh terrain provided a challenging environment for the elite troops. Over the course of a week, the soldiers performed a series of specialized underwater operations designed to simulate combat scenarios in some of the world’s toughest conditions.

The exercise included:

• Open-circuit scuba diving using compressed air.
• Closed-circuit pure-oxygen rebreather diving, ensuring stealth and minimal detection.
• Night combat dives to enhance tactical coordination in low-visibility conditions.
• Deep submersions up to 17 metres in freezing waters, testing stamina and precision.

Defence officials highlighted that the drill was aimed at improving jointmanship between the Army and Navy’s special forces, while also preparing them for multi-domain warfare. The high-altitude environment added additional physiological stress, making this exercise a true test of endurance, adaptability, and combat efficiency.

A Defence PRO praised the initiative, stating that the training showcased the professionalism, courage, and operational synergy of India’s most elite soldiers. Such exercises, officials added, help sharpen India’s ability to respond to security challenges in both mountainous and maritime theatres.

The high-altitude combat diving drill in Sikkim marks another step forward in India’s efforts to maintain battle readiness and enhance the capabilities of its special operations forces.