MILITARY EXERCISES BETWEEN INDIA AND OTHER COUNTRIES

Military exercises between India and other countries are a crucial aspect of India’s defense diplomacy and strategic partnerships. These exercises aim to enhance interoperability, share best practices, and strengthen military-to-military relations. Here are some notable examples of such exercises:

Bilateral Exercises

1. Malabar: This is a naval exercise involving the United States, Japan, and India, focusing on maritime operations and cooperation. Recently, Australia has also been a participant.
2. Yudh Abhyas: An annual bilateral exercise between the Indian and United States armies that focuses on counter-insurgency and counter-terrorism operations.
3. Shakti: A bilateral exercise between the Indian Army and the French Army, aimed at enhancing cooperation in counter-terrorism operations.
4. Varuna: A naval exercise between India and France, focusing on naval operations and enhancing maritime cooperation.
5. Sampriti: A joint military exercise between the Indian and Bangladeshi armies, emphasizing counter-terrorism and disaster management.
6. Indra: A joint exercise between India and Russia, involving both army and navy exercises.

Multilateral Exercises

1. RIMPAC (Rim of the Pacific Exercise): The world’s largest international maritime warfare exercise, in which India has been a participant among many other nations.
2. COBRA GOLD: One of the largest multinational military exercises in the Asia-Pacific region, held in Thailand, with India’s participation focusing on humanitarian assistance and disaster relief.
3. Peace Mission: Under the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO), this exercise focuses on counter-terrorism operations and involves multiple member countries, including India, China, and Russia.

Regional and Specialized Exercises

1. Mitra Shakti: A joint exercise between the Indian Army and the Sri Lankan Army, focusing on counter-insurgency and counter-terrorism operations.
2. Surya Kiran: A biannual exercise between India and Nepal aimed at enhancing military cooperation and interoperability between the two armies.
3. Hand-in-Hand: A joint military exercise between India and China, focusing on counter-terrorism and humanitarian assistance.

Naval Exercises

1. SIMBEX (Singapore-India Maritime Bilateral Exercise): A naval exercise between India and Singapore, enhancing maritime security cooperation.
2. JIMEX (Japan-India Maritime Exercise): A naval exercise focusing on maritime security and interoperability between the Indian Navy and the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force.
3. MALABAR: Initially a bilateral exercise between India and the United States, it has now evolved into a quadrilateral exercise with the inclusion of Japan and Australia, focusing on various aspects of naval warfare and maritime security.

Air Force Exercises

1. Garuda: A joint air exercise between India and France, focusing on enhancing cooperation and interoperability between the air forces.
2. Red Flag: A multilateral air exercise hosted by the United States, in which India has participated, focusing on advanced aerial combat training.

These exercises not only strengthen military ties but also contribute to regional stability and security. They provide an opportunity for the Indian Armed Forces to operate in diverse environments and scenarios, enhancing their operational capabilities and readiness.