Indo-US militaries start ‘Yudh Abhyas’ with focus on technology, interoperability
The inaugural ceremony of the ‘Yudh Abhyas’ was held at the Auli Foreign Training Hub in Uttarakhand. | Photo credit: PTI
The 22nd edition of the Indo-US joint military exercise ‘Yudh Abhyas’ (practice of war) was launched on Tuesday, September 15, 2026, with a focus on enhancing interoperability between the two militaries and integrating new technologies into operations in mountainous and semi-mountainous terrain.
The inaugural ‘Yudh Abhyas’ ceremony was held at the Foreign Training Hub Auli in Uttarakhand, where Major General Amaresh Gunjan, General Officer Commanding, 14th Infantry Division, and Colonel Benjamin Jackman, Commander, 1st Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 11th Airborne Division, US Army, addressed the participating units of the Union Ministry of Defense.
Around 600 personnel from each side are taking part in the exercise, which is being held simultaneously at Auli and the Mahajan Field in Rajasthan.
The exercise is aimed at strengthening the joint military capability of both armies for the deployment of integrated battle groups in mountainous and semi-mountainous terrain, with a focus on infantry-dominant operations.
The key focus of the exercise is the use of technology in operations on the battlefield. Participating units will train in the use of drones and autonomous systems for surveillance and reconnaissance, while current weapons systems will be demonstrated at the Mahajan Field firing range.
Experts from both militaries will also exchange views on new technologies and developments in multi-domain warfare, the Defense Ministry said.
The exercise will provide an opportunity for both sides to share tactics, techniques and procedures and enhance their ability to plan and execute coordinated military operations in different terrains and operational environments. It is also expected to enhance interoperability between the two forces through joint training and exchange of operational best practices.
Published – 15 Sep 2026 23:02 IST