DOGRA HERALD BUREAU
NEW DELHI, Sept 9
The 20th edition of the India-USA Joint Military Exercise, YUDH ABHYAS-2024, commenced today at the Foreign Training Node in the Mahajan Field Firing Ranges, Rajasthan. Scheduled from 9th to 22nd September 2024, the exercise continues the tradition of this annual joint military drill, which has been conducted alternately between India and the USA since 2004.
This year’s edition marks a significant increase in the scale and complexity of the exercise, both in terms of troop strength and equipment. The Indian Army is participating with a contingent of 600 personnel, led by a battalion from the RAJPUT Regiment and supported by personnel from various other arms and services. The US Army contingent, of similar size, is represented by the troops of the 1-24 Battalion of the 11th Airborne Division, based in Alaska. The primary objective of Exercise YUDH ABHYAS-2024 is to enhance the joint military capabilities of both armies, focusing on counter-terrorism operations in a semi-desert environment. The exercise will take place under the framework of Chapter VII of the United Nations Charter, which deals with actions concerning threats to peace, breaches of peace, and acts of aggression. During the exercise, the troops will rehearse a wide range of tactical drills, including joint responses to terrorist activities, planning of operations, and combined field training exercises that simulate real-world counter-terrorism scenarios.
These tactical drills are designed to prepare both armies for effective and coordinated operations in sub-conventional warfare settings. YUDH ABHYAS provides an excellent opportunity for both sides to share best practices in tactics, techniques, and procedures for conducting joint military operations. The exercise fosters interoperability, mutual trust, and camaraderie between the Indian and US armies. It also contributes to enhancing defense cooperation and further strengthening the bilateral relations between the two friendly nations.
With each passing year, Exercise YUDH ABHYAS continues to grow in significance, reflecting the strong military partnership between India and the USA, while promoting regional and global peace and stability.
