In a display of balancing military engagements with diverse partners, Indian troops are gearing up for two simultaneous military exercises, commencing on September 25. These exercises, taking place in Alaska, USA, and Vladivostok, Russia, underscore India’s commitment to fostering international cooperation and honing its military capabilities on a global stage.
The first exercise unfolds in Alaska, USA, as part of a bilateral arrangement with the United States. In this endeavor, around 350 Indian troops will participate in the 19th edition of ‘Yudh Abhyas 2023.’ This comprehensive exercise, from September 25 to October 10, will encompass various ground operations, providing a platform for both nations to exchange best practices and enhance interoperability.
Simultaneously, on the other side of the globe, in Vladivostok, Russia, a significant military drill is set to take place. This exercise, the “Counter-terrorism field training exercise,” holds particular interest as it involves multiple nations. India, Russia, and China are participating, alongside the 10-member ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations). Organized under the aegis of the ASEAN Defence Ministers Meeting-Plus (ADMM-Plus), this exercise from September 25 to 30.
The inclusion of China in this exercise, given its ADMM-Plus membership, is noteworthy. It reflects the cooperative spirit among nations to collectively address the challenges of counter-terrorism. Myanmar and Russia jointly lead the experts working group (EWG) on counter-terrorism within ADMM-Plus. In August, these countries conducted a ‘tabletop exercise’ as a precursor to discussing tactical approaches.
The ADMM Plus, established in 2010, convenes annually, fostering dialogue and cooperation among the ASEAN nations and Plus countries. This year, ASEAN member states and the Plus Group will participate in the exercise, contributing to the strengthening and promotion of regional cooperation in counter-terrorism efforts.
The exercise’s objectives encompass various counter-terrorism drills, including scenarios involving the neutralization of terrorist groups within fortified areas. Its main goal is to enhance regional cooperation in counter-terrorism and promote best practices in this critical field.
For the Indian Army, participation in the ADMM Plus EWG on Counter-terrorism 2023 offers a valuable opportunity to share expertise and best practices in counter-terrorism operations. It also facilitates increased cooperation with the 12 participating countries, enhancing regional security and stability.
Amidst the backdrop of geopolitical tensions, such as the strained relations between the United States and its NATO allies with Russia and the India-China standoff along the Line of Actual Control (LAC), India’s commitment to multilateral military exercises underscores its pursuit of global security and cooperation.
The ADMM-Plus, initiated in Vietnam in 2010, centers on seven areas of practical cooperation: maritime security, counter-terrorism, humanitarian assistance and disaster management, peacekeeping operations, military medicine, humanitarian mine action, and cybersecurity.
