India is skillfully navigating the evolving global landscape, currently engaged in two distinct military exercises. In the Russian Far East, an Indian Army contingent of 32 personnel from the Rajputana Rifles is participating in a multinational combat training event hosted by Russia. Simultaneously, India is conducting annual tactical drills with the United States Army in Alaska.
The international counter-terrorism field training exercise in Russia is part of the ASEAN Defence Ministers Meeting (ADMM) Plus Expert Working Group (EWG). This exercise involves armed forces from ASEAN member nations and dialogue partners, including India, aiming to bolster security, defense cooperation, and regional stability.
Russia and Myanmar co-chair the ADMM-Plus EWG on Counter Terrorism, one of seven expert working groups focusing on various security aspects. The exercise features 700 military personnel from 12 contingents, engaging in anti-terrorist operation simulations, including the elimination of terrorist groups in fortified areas.
In contrast, the Indo-US joint training exercise ‘Yudh Abhyas 2023’ is taking place in Fort Wainwright, Alaska. It involves a 350-member Indian Army contingent from the 116th Infantry Brigade, 14th Infantry Division. This annual exercise fosters cooperation, interoperability, and tactical skills development. This year’s focus is on UN peacekeeping operations in challenging mountain and extreme climatic conditions.
The Indian Army and the United States Army are concurrently hosting a conference in New Delhi, the 13th IPACC, 47th IPAMS, and 9th SELF, bringing together Chiefs of Armies and delegates from 35 countries. The primary focus revolves around “Uniting for Peace: Ensuring Stability in the Indo-Pacific Region.”
Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted India’s recent diplomatic achievements, from the BRICS Summit to the G20, where six new nations joined as members. The unanimous New Delhi Declaration garnered global attention, showcasing India’s diplomatic prowess.
