New Delhi: After two dry-run joint manoeuvres, Indian and US paratroopers have conducted a first ever "live" firing exercise during the just concluded operation "Geronimo Thurst" in Alaska highlands.

During the four-day exercise, Indian special forces for the first time used the American MP4 and their newer version MP5 assault rifles which fire disintegrating shells, a powerful weapon against terrorist concentrations and for mob control.

The Indian contingent, along with special airborne forces of the US Pacific Command, conducted airborne exercises and the joint training concluded with "live" firing exercises, an Army spokesman said.

Eight senior Indian Army and Air Force officers witnessed the exercises as observers. Indian Ambassador to the United States Lalit Mansingh met the contingents and witnessed some of the training events.

The Indian paratroopers, who returned to New Delhi on October 19, have long been eyeing these American weapons to equip the special forces, sources said.

PTI