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India–US to hold joint military exercise in September amid tariff blow: Sources
Against the backdrop of ongoing tariff tensions, India and the United States are set to undertake their largest-ever joint military exercise, underscoring the continued strength of their strategic partnership. The 21st edition of Exercise Yudh Abhyas will be conducted from September 1 to 14 in Alaska, USA, top sources told India year's edition marks a significant expansion in both scope and complexity, featuring over 400 Indian Army personnel, the largest Indian contingent to date. The troops, drawn from a mix of all arms and services, will be led by the Madras Regiment, one of India's oldest and most battle-hardened Yudh Abhyas, held annually since 2004 on a rotational basis between India and the US, aims to improve joint capabilities in counter-terrorism operations under UN Chapter VII scenarios, which deal with peace enforcement. Tactical drills will include joint response to terrorist threats, combined planning, and field training exercises simulating real-world combat situations.
This year's drill assumes additional significance as it will be the first joint exercise post-Operation Sindoor, a major Indian military operation that reportedly impressed US forces with its integrated, modern joint warfare tactics. Sources confirm that US troops are keen to draw lessons from India's experience, indicating growing mutual respect and knowledge exchange between the two a notable capability demonstration, the US Army will showcase the amphibious version of its Stryker combat vehicle, following India's earlier evaluation of the land-based variant. India had specifically requested this capability trial, and depending on its performance, future procurement decisions could be influenced, sources 20th edition of the exercise was held last year at the Foreign Training Node in Mahajan Field Firing Ranges, Rajasthan, and the 2025 edition is expected to build significantly on that engagement. The increase in troop strength and the addition of high-value equipment trials reflects the deepening of military cooperation, even as diplomatic relations are tested by ongoing trade disagreements rooted in former President Donald Trump's tariff tactical training, Exercise Yudh Abhyas is designed to foster interoperability, trust, and camaraderie between the two forces. By exchanging tactics, techniques, and procedures, both armies aim to enhance their joint operational readiness and bolster long-term defence the friction in economic relations, the upcoming joint drill reaffirms that India-US strategic and defence ties remain robust, anchored in shared democratic values and converging security the US continues its largesse toward Pakistan, the latest being its praise for the latter's 'continued successes in containing terrorist groups' that threaten regional and global security. Earlier, while Pakistan Army chief Field Marshal Asim Munir was on US visit, the Trump administration labelled the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) as a foreign terrorist organisation.- EndsTrending Reel
