India-US Joint Military Exercise Yudh Abhyas 2025
The 21st edition of the India–USA joint military exercise Yudh Abhyas 2025 commenced in Fort Wainwright, Alaska. Scheduled from 1st to 14th September 2025, this exercise involves troops from the Indian Army’s Madras Regiment and the US 1st Battalion, 5th Infantry Regiment Bobcats of the Arctic Wolves Brigade Combat Team, 11th Airborne Division. The exercise takes place amid ongoing bilateral trade tensions but marks the continuing strategic defence partnership between the two nations.
Yudh Abhyas 2025
- Yudh Abhyas is one of the largest joint military exercises between India and the US.
- This year’s edition focuses on integrated warfare tactics and high-altitude operations.
- The two-week event includes training in heliborne operations, mountain warfare, rock craft, casualty evacuation, and combat medical aid.
- It also emphasises the combined use of artillery, aviation, and electronic warfare systems to enhance operational synergy.
Tactical Drills and Training Focus
Troops rehearse a wide array of tactical drills. These include the use of unmanned aerial systems (UAS) for surveillance and counter-UAS operations. The exercise also covers live-fire drills and complex manoeuvres simulating high-altitude warfare conditions. These drills aim to improve combat readiness for multi-domain challenges and United Nations peacekeeping missions.
Role of Subject-Matter Experts
Experts from both armies conduct working groups on key domains such as information warfare, communications, logistics, and electronic warfare. These sessions facilitate knowledge exchange and help develop joint strategies for emerging military technologies and battlefield scenarios.
Strategic Context Amid Trade Tensions
The exercise occurs despite recent trade conflicts, notably the 50% tariffs imposed by the US on Indian goods under the Trump administration. While these tensions have strained economic ties, defence relations remain robust. The military collaboration reflects a long-standing strategic partnership that continues to prioritise security cooperation over trade disputes.
Significance
Yudh Abhyas strengthens interoperability between the Indian and US armies. It prepares forces for joint operations in diverse environments, including extreme cold and mountainous terrain. The exercise also enhances India’s capacity to contribute to global peacekeeping efforts and respond to multi-domain security threats.
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