Joint India-US military exercise commences in Northern India

India and the US began an annual joint military exercise in the Indian states of Uttarakhand and Rajasthan, officials said on Tuesday.

A statement by the Indian Defense Ministry said the opening ceremony of the 22nd edition of the India-US joint military exercise "Yudh Abhyas" was held in the state of Uttarakhand.

Six-hundred personnel from each side are participating in the exercise, which is simultaneously being conducted in both states.

“The exercise is aimed at enhancing the joint military capability of both armies for employment of Integrated battle groups in mountainous and semi-mountainous terrain, with emphasis on infantry-dominated operations,” the ministry said. “It will strengthen interoperability, facilitate exchanges of best operational practices and strengthen joint planning and execution.”

According to the statement, technology “infusion" will form a key focus area.

“The training will include the employment of drones and autonomous systems for surveillance and reconnaissance, while a demonstration of contemporary weapon systems will be undertaken at Mahajan field firing ranges,” the defense ministry said.

“The exercise provides an opportunity for both armies to share tactics, techniques and procedures; and enhance their ability to undertake coordinated military operations across varied terrain and operational environment,” it added.