U.S. President Donald Trump is amidst a tariff debate with India. Despite this, he is set to meet Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska. Concurrently, the Indian and American forces are gearing up for a significant military exercise named 'Yudh Abhyas'. This year, the 21st edition will occur from September 1 to September 14, 2025, in Alaska, USA.
This exercise will bolster defense collaboration between the two nations. Let's delve into what this exercise entails and how lessons from Operation Sindoor will be integrated.
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What is 'Yudh Abhyas'?
'Yudh Abhyas' is an annual joint military wargame, starting in 2004, between Indian and U.S. forces, alternately held in both countries. Last year's 20th edition took place at Rajasthan's Mahajan Field Firing Range in 2024.
This time, the exercise will be conducted in Alaska's cold, elevated terrains, aimed at training both armies for counter-terrorism operations together.
Source: aajtak
What's Special This Time?
This year's 'Yudh Abhyas' will have a broader scope and complexity. Over 400 Indian soldiers, more than the previous year, will participate, led by the Madras Regiment. A full range of military units, including infantry, tanks, and auxiliary forces, will be involved. The U.S. military will showcase new weapons and technologies.
Notably, the U.S. will introduce the amphibious version of their 'Stryker' vehicle, previously tested by India on land. If tests are successful, India might consider procurement.
Related:
Lessons from Operation Sindoor
The U.S. military intends to learn from India's recent Operation Sindoor, a military initiative where India took decisive actions against terrorists, showcasing strategic, tactical, and technological prowess.
This time, the U.S. will observe lessons on joint planning and real-condition exercises for counter-terror missions, under United Nations guidelines (Chapter VII).
Source: aajtak
What Will the Exercise Include?
This 14-day exercise will feature multiple activities...
Counter-Terrorism Drills: Joint practice in responding to terrorist attacks.
Joint Planning: Soldiers will devise strategies together.
Field Training: Conducting exercises in real-war scenarios.
Collaboration and Friendship: Sharing new technologies and techniques.
Disaster Relief: Training for responding to natural disasters in cold, mountainous regions.
This exercise will enhance mutual understanding, friendship, and cooperation between the two forces, strengthening India-U.S. relations.
Why Is This Exercise Important?
In today's world, where terrorism and border tensions escalate, India and the U.S. need strong military partnerships. This exercise will ensure both armies work more efficiently together. It's also an opportunity for India to embrace U.S. technology, like the Stryker vehicle. Despite trade conflicts with Trump, this exercise underscores the military camaraderie between these two nations.
