Bikaner

On Monday, Indian and US army personnel began the 20th edition of the joint military exercise, ‘Yudh Abhyas 2024,’ aimed at improving interoperability and synergy between the two forces. This year’s exercise is taking place at the Foreign Training Node, Mahajan Field Firing Ranges in Rajasthan, where training has been ongoing since September 9 and will continue until September 22.

The Indian Army shared a video of the joint exercises, showcasing the cooperation between troops from both nations. The exercise aims to enhance the combined military capabilities of both sides for counterterrorism operations in subconventional scenarios, as outlined under Chapter VII of the United Nations Charter.

As part of the exercise, around 600 US soldiers have arrived in India. On Sunday, they visited the historic Junagarh Fort in Bikaner, Rajasthan. The American soldiers were impressed by landmarks like Badal Mahal and Ranivas and received historical insights from local guides.

The joint drills include tactical responses to terrorist actions, joint planning, and field training exercises that simulate real-world counter-terrorism missions. The 14-day exercise involves about 600 Indian troops from the RAJPUT Regiment and the 1-24 Battalion of the US 11th Airborne Division from Alaska.