The India-Vietnam joint military exercise VINBAX-2024 has successfully concluded its crucial validation phase, underscoring the growing defence ties between the two countries. Held from November 4 to 23, 2024, at Ambala, Haryana, the exercise focused on enhancing the peacekeeping capabilities of both nations, particularly in line with the United Nations’ Chapter VII mandates for humanitarian aid and conflict resolution.
The validation phase, conducted on November 19-20, was a critical part of the exercise, confirming that the forces had met key training standards in areas like constructing protection infrastructure and performing vital rehabilitation tasks. The exercise also involved deploying Combat Engineering Companies and Medical Teams, demonstrating India and Vietnam’s readiness for joint peacekeeping operations under the auspices of the UN.
For the first time in the VINBAX series, air assets from the Indian Air Force and Indian Army Aviation were integrated into the exercise. These assets facilitated aerial reconnaissance, personnel insertion, and the transportation of engineering equipment, which significantly boosted operational efficiency. The inclusion of advanced air capabilities reflects growing military interoperability between India and Vietnam.
The successful validation of VINBAX-2024 further cements the growing defence partnership between India and Vietnam. Both countries share a strong commitment to regional peace and stability, and this exercise underscores their collaborative efforts in contributing to international peacekeeping and humanitarian missions.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh in Laos for ASEAN Defence Forum
In a parallel diplomatic effort, India’s Defence Minister Rajnath Singh is currently in Vientiane, Laos, for the 11th ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting Plus (ADMM-Plus), which runs from November 20-22, 2024. Singh’s participation underscores India’s increasing engagement with Southeast Asia and its dedication to enhancing regional security cooperation.
The ADMM-Plus is a crucial platform for dialogue between ASEAN members and their eight dialogue partners, including India. It serves as a forum for addressing emerging security challenges, fostering military cooperation, and promoting peace in the region. During the meeting, Singh is set to address regional and international security issues, with a focus on maritime security, counterterrorism, and cybersecurity.
Singh’s visit also includes a series of bilateral meetings with his counterparts from nations including Australia, China, Japan, South Korea, Malaysia, New Zealand, the Philippines, and the USA. These discussions are expected to focus on further strengthening India’s defence ties with these countries, exploring new avenues for cooperation, and enhancing the collective security framework in the Indo-Pacific.
India’s Strategic Focus on ASEAN
India’s relationship with ASEAN dates back to 1992, and its participation in the ADMM-Plus platform—since the inaugural meeting in 2010—has been a key component of its strategic outreach. India’s growing engagement with ASEAN is crucial for ensuring a stable and secure Indo-Pacific region. The ADMM-Plus, under the current chairmanship of Laos, provides India with a platform to deepen its defence cooperation with regional players and enhance its role in shaping the security environment.
Singh’s visit is a significant milestone in India’s defence diplomacy and highlights its strategic importance in regional security frameworks. As the Indo-Pacific faces rising geopolitical tensions, India is positioning itself as a key partner in shaping regional stability and contributing to multilateral security dialogues.