Tensions Escalate as Global Military Exercises Unfold: A Look at US-India and US-Russia Manoeuvres

Amid escalating global tensions, the US is strengthening its military presence in Alaska in response to Russia's extensive naval exercises, with China also involved, while joint drills with India highlight growing geopolitical complexities.

Written by Express Defence

September 17, 2024 12:43 IST

US boosts Alaska presence as Russia, China conduct major naval drills; joint India-US exercises reflect rising global tensions. (Image: Reuters)

In a period marked by intensifying geopolitical tensions, global military exercises are underscoring the fragile balance of power between nations. As the US Army conducts joint military drills with the Indian Army in Rajasthan, India, heightened activity in Alaska signals the growing concerns between the US., Russia, and China.

Recently, the US deployed its `HIMARS’ (High Mobility Artillery Rocket System) to Alaska in response to Russia’s `Ocean 2024’ exercise, a large-scale naval operation involving over 400 warships and submarines, supported by around 90,000 soldiers. This exercise, taking place from September 10 to 16, is not only a show of strength by Russia but also includes participation from China, adding to the complexity of the situation. The proximity of Alaska to Russian territory, less than 100 kilometers away, amplifies concerns in the U.S. over the security of its northern region.

Ex Yuddh Abhyas

Simultaneously, the US is engaged in `Yuddh Abhyas’, a joint military exercise with India that began on September 9 and continues until the 24th. The exercise is taking place in the Thar Desert, Rajasthan, and involves a battalion from the US Army’s 11th Airborne Division. This division is typically responsible for the defence of Alaska, making its involvement in the Indian drills even more significant. In addition to troop deployment, the US has also brought its `HIMARS’ rocket system to India for training purposes, highlighting the growing defence partnership between the two nations. This exercise focuses on improving cooperation and combat readiness between Indian and US forces.

Ocean 2024

The `Ocean 2024’ exercise, spanning the Arctic Ocean, Caspian Sea, and Baltic Sea, has stirred security concerns within the US., especially given Russia’s increasingly assertive stance. The participation of China in this exercise has further raised eyebrows, as it indicates a strengthening military alliance between Russia and China, potentially challenging US influence in these critical regions. In response, the US has moved to strengthen its own defences, deploying additional resources to Alaska, including infantry, communication systems, and advanced radar equipment.

Adding to the tension is the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine. Recently, the US and the UK halted plans to supply Ukraine with long-range missiles after Russian President Vladimir Putin issued a nuclear threat. This cautionary move illustrates the high stakes of current military posturing and the potential for further escalation.

This article was first uploaded on September seventeen, twenty twenty-four, at forty-three minutes past twelve in the night.