As the strategic relationship between India and the United States begins to stabilize, both nations are gearing up for their largest joint military exercise yet. Ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s upcoming visit to the US later this month, the 20th edition of the annual ‘Yuddhabhyas’ exercise will take place at the Mahajan Field Firing Range in Rajasthan from September 9-24. This exercise marks a significant development, with both countries bringing advanced military technology to the battlefield, setting the stage for an unprecedented showcase of firepower.
Involving 600 soldiers from each side, this year’s Yuddhabhyas exercise brings a new element into play—the US is introducing its Mobile Artillery Rocket System (MARS) to the exercise for the first time. Traditionally, the US Army has deployed its Stryker Brigade, an armored personnel carrier, in joint drills with India. However, the addition of the MARS system signals an escalation in the complexity and scale of the military cooperation between the two nations. This comes as a response to India’s use of tanks and cannons during the joint exercises in the US in 2021.
The Yuddhabhyas exercise, which alternates annually between the two nations, was hosted by the US in Alaska last year. This year, the scorching sands of the Thar desert will serve as the backdrop for advanced combat training, focusing on modern warfare techniques and the integration of cutting-edge technology.
The introduction of rocket systems comes at a critical time, as such artillery has proven to be a game-changer in modern conflicts like the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war. Notably, the Russian Army frequently uses multiple rocket launcher systems during its joint military exercises with India. The US’s decision to bring its rocket system to the table this year further enhances the military synergy between Washington and New Delhi, showcasing their ability to cooperate on a deeper, more sophisticated level.
In addition to the US rocket systems, India is set to showcase the AK-203 assault rifles, jointly manufactured with Russia at a facility in Korwa, Amethi. This marks the first time the Indian Army will use these rifles during a major international military drill, adding a new dimension to India’s indigenous defense production efforts under the ‘Make in India’ initiative.
This exercise also comes at a time when the diplomatic ties between India and the US have seen a recent recovery. Strained by India’s neutral stance on Russia during the Ukraine war and the murder of Khalistani separatist Gurpatwant Singh Pannu, relations had cooled. However, Modi’s visit to Kyiv and Defense Minister Rajnath Singh’s recent engagement with US officials have helped restore trust between the two nations.
The world will be watching closely as these two military powerhouses engage in Yuddhabhyas, especially as they bring their most advanced artillery and weapons systems to the forefront. This joint exercise symbolizes more than just a display of military strength; it represents the rekindling of a strategic partnership that has the potential to shape global security dynamics.