20th Edition of Exercise YUDH ABHYAS Commences with a Focus on Counter-Terrorism in Desert Terrain

Rajasthan , India: 20th edition of India-USA Joint Military Exercise, YUDH ABHYAS-2024, commenced today at Foreign Training Node in Mahajan Field Firing Ranges, Rajasthan . This landmark exercise, scheduled from September 9th to 22nd, 2024, signifies a significant escalation in scope and complexity, reflecting growing military cooperation between two nations. 

Since its inception in 2004, Exercise YUDH ABHYAS has been a pivotal event in India-USA defence partnership, held annually and alternating between two countries. Over years, this exercise has evolved, growing in both size and complexity of operations, symbolizing deepening military ties between India and United States. This 20th edition is a testament to enduring strength of this bilateral relationship. 

Substantial Increase in Troop Strength 

This year, YUDH ABHYAS-2024 marks a substantial increase in troop strength and variety of equipment deployed. Indian Army is represented by a battalion from prestigious RAJPUT Regiment, supported by personnel from various arms and services, totalling approximately 600 troops. United States contingent, matching this strength, comprises troops from 1-24 Battalion of Alaska-based 11th Airborne Division of US Army.

expanded scope of this exercise underscores its importance, as both armies bring a wealth of experience and vanced military technology to table. This edition’s focus is on refining joint military capabilities to conduct counter-terrorism operations in semi-desert terrains, a critical area of expertise under Chapter VII of United Nations Charter. 

Focus on Counter-Terrorism and Urban Warfare 

primary aim of Exercise YUDH ABHYAS-2024 is to enhance joint military capabilities of both nations in counter-terrorism operations. exercise will specifically target operations in semi-desert environments, which are characterized by ir unique challenges, such as harsh climates and difficult terrain. 

Key tactical drills include joint responses to terrorist actions, joint planning sessions, and combined field training exercises that simulate real-world counter-terrorism missions. se operations will not only test troops' reiness but also provide a platform to share best practices in tactics, techniques, and procedures. This will significantly contribute to developing interoperability, camarerie, and a deep sense of cooperation between two forces. 

19th edition of YUDH ABHYAS was held from September 25 to October 9, 2023, at Fort Wainwright in Alaska, USA. This edition was particularly challenging, focusing on cold-wear operations and testing capabilities of both armies in counter-insurgency and counter-terrorism missions under extreme conditions. 

Some of key aspects of 2023 edition included: 

• Mountain Warfare Techniques: Training in high-altitude combat and survival skills. 
• Combat Engineering in Snow and Ice: Engineering tasks like building fortifications and clearing obstacles in snowy terrains. 
• Counter-Drone Operations: Developing strategies to detect and neutralize drone threats. 
• Communication and Coordination: Ensuring effective communication in harsh and remote environments. 

se experiences have been invaluable in preparing both armies for diverse operational environments, from frozen landscapes of Alaska to arid regions of Rajasthan . 

Shifting Focus: Desert Warfare and Urban Combat 

20th edition of YUDH ABHYAS-2024 will shift focus from cold-wear operations of previous year to counter-insurgency and counter-terrorism operations in desert and semi-desert terrains. This year's exercise is specifically designed to enhance interoperability in sub-conventional operations, particularly in Fighting in Built-Up Areas (FIBUA), where troops engage in urban warfare scenarios within desert environments. 

Key aspects of this year’s exercise include: 

• Counter-Insurgency and Counter-Terrorism Operations: Emphasizing tactics and strategies to combat insurgent and terrorist threats in desert terrains. 
• FIBUA Training: Simulating urban warfare conditions, where troops engage in close-quarter battles within built-up areas, apting to unique challenges of desert environments. 
• Large-Scale Participation: 20th edition is expected to be largest yet, with approximately 600 Indian Army personnel participating, alongside up to 250 troops from US Army. 

Exercise YUDH ABHYAS-2024 not only serves as a platform for military exchange but also as a cornerstone for strengning defence cooperation between India and United States.