Defence Services Command and Staff College

EXERCISE SHADOW DANCE – 2026

Exercise ‘Shadow Dance’ is one of the principal joint exercises conducted during the Second Term of the Defence Services Command and Staff College (DSCSC). The exercise comprises a joint Command Post Exercise (CPX) integrated with a two sided war game.
The exercise is designed to test Course Participants by exposing them to the full spectrum of command and staff functions associated with the planning and execution of divisional level offensive and defensive operations. Further, the exercise aims to enhance Course Participants’ proficiency in the application of operational planning and decision making tools, improve their understanding of battle procedure and its constituent processes, and develop their ability to plan, coordinate, and conduct operations at both operational and tactical levels. Through the two sided war game, Course Participants assume the roles of the Sri Lankan Forces and the Videsh Forces (generic enemy) and apply operational art and military decision making in a realistic and dynamic environment.
Exercise Shadow Dance 2026 was conducted over a period of nine days from 12 to 20 June 2026. Throughout the exercise, the plans developed by Course Participants were rigorously tested through a series of command post activities and war gaming events. This process enabled the evaluation of the feasibility, suitability, and effectiveness of the Courses of Action formulated by both opposing forces.
As part of the exercise, Course Participants also took part in a realistic media engagement activity. A panel of experienced journalists conducted a simulated press conference, providing participants with an opportunity to appreciate the challenges of operating within the contemporary information environment. This activity enhanced their understanding of media relations and developed their confidence in responding to a broad range of probing and complex questions.
At the conclusion of the exercise, Army Course Participants attended a Red Ink Correction (RIC) session focused on the preparation and refinement of an overlay Operation Order for Combat Service Support, thereby reinforcing the doctrinal and procedural aspects of military planning.