India-US joint military exercise begins in Rajasthan, focus on counter-terrorism operations

The armed forces of India and the US are presently part of two separate military exercises in Rajasthan. The latest one called the Yudh-Abhyaas –a two-week event -- kicked off on Monday at the Mahajan field firing ranges north west of Bikaner.

This has the Indian Army and US Army participating.

On September 1, the two-week long, the multi-nation air exercise, the Tarang Shakti started at Jodhpur, some 300 south of the Mahajan ranges. This has the US air force participating with its air assets.

On Monday, the Vice Chiefs of the Indian Army, the IAF and the Indian Navy flew a sortie on board the Tejas jets at the Tarang Shakti.

On the India-US Army exercise, an Indian statement said “this edition marks a significant increase in the scope and complexity of the joint exercise in terms of troop strength and equipment”.

The Indian Army contingent comprises 600 personnel. The US contingent comprises a similar strength.

Aim of the joint exercise is to enhance joint military capability to undertake counter terrorism operations. Tactical drills to be rehearsed during the exercise include joint response to a terrorist action, joint planning and combined field training exercises that simulate real-world counter-terrorism missions.

It will facilitate developing inter-operability, bonhomie and camaraderie between the two armies. The joint exercise will also enhance defence cooperation, further augmenting bilateral relations between the two friendly nations.

Meanwhile at Jodhpur, the Vice Chief of IAF Air Marshal AP Singh flew the lead Tejas jet. The Vice Chief of the Indian Army Lt Gen NS Raja Subramani and the Vice Chief of the Indian Navy Vice Admiral Krishna Swaminathan flew in a twin-seat Tejas, piloted by regular IAF pilots.

IAF officials said this was an unprecedented joint flight of the Vice Chiefs of the three services, aimed towards integration of India's armed forces.

Tarang Shakti 2024, is India's first multi-national exercise aimed at enhancing interoperability and operational coordination amongst participating foreign countries.