India-US joint military exercise 'Yudh Abhyas' gets underway

New Delhi: A joint military exercise -- 'Yudh Abhyas' -- involving the troops of Indian and US armies, which seeks to bolster interoperability among the two forces and address emerging challenges while further strengthening the bilateral defence partnership, kicked off on Tuesday.

The opening ceremony of the 22nd edition of the exercise was held at Auli Foreign Training Node in Uttarakhand. The exercise is simultaneously being conducted at Auli and Mahajan Field Firing Range in Rajasthan, the Indian defence ministry said.

"The exercise is aimed at enhancing the joint military capability of both armies for employment of Integrated Battle Groups in mountainous and semi-mountainous terrain, with emphasis on infantry-dominated operations. It will strengthen interoperability, facilitate exchanges of best operational practices and strengthen joint planning and execution," it said in a statement.


Maj Gen Amaresh Gunjan, General Officer Commanding, 14 Infantry Division and Col Benjamin Jackman, Commander, 1st Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 11th Airborne Division, US Army, addressed the participating contingents comprising 600 personnel from each side, the ministry said.

Technology infusion will form a key focus area. The training will include the employment of drones and autonomous systems for surveillance and reconnaissance, as well as demonstration of contemporary weapon systems, which will be undertaken at Mahajan Field Firing Ranges, officials said.

"Subject matter experts from both the armies will also exchange views on emerging technologies and developments in multi-domain warfare," it said.

The exercise provides an opportunity for both the armies to share tactics, techniques and procedures; and enhance their ability to undertake coordinated military operations across varied terrain and operational environment.

The US Embassy in India, in a post on X on Tuesday, said, "The 22nd edition of Exercise Yudh Abhyas is underway! Over the next two weeks, US and Indian soldiers will train together, sharing skills, building readiness, and improving collaboration between our forces. Through field training, live-fire exercises, and the exchange of expertise and experiences, Yudh Abhyas 2026 aims to strengthen interoperability among our forces and address emerging challenges while further strengthening the US-India defense partnership."

US Ambassador Sergio Gor sharing the post, said, "Over the next two weeks, US and Indian soldiers will train together, sharing skills, building readiness, and improving collaboration between our forces."