Indian soldiers injured in UK joint exercise mishap

Several Indian and British soldiers participating in a joint exercise called Ajeya Warrior in the Salisbury plans in south-west England were injured – at least one Indian seriously – during a collision between troop lorries on Wednesday evening.

The exercise, held biannually between the two countries, aims to build military relations between Indian and UK armies and to enhance their ability to undertake joint tactical level operations in counter insurgency, counter terrorism environment.

A Ministry of Defence spokesperson confirmed the incident to HT and said details would shortly be released. Reports said at least one Indian army personnel was seriously injured.

The Indian component of the exercise involved about 120 personnel from the Kumaon Regiment.

The Wiltshire Police said two army officers, who were air lifted by air ambulance to Southampton General Hospital, had what it called “life changing injuries”. Both have serious injuries to their legs. They were travelling in the third truck in the convoy of troop lorries.

A total of nine personnel were taken to the Salisbury District Hospital with minor injuries, the police said and added that the majority of those had been released by Thursday morning.

First Published: Jun 18, 2015 16:16 IST