Exercise Yudh Abhyas 2024 to reaches its Zenith with Counter-Terrorism, and Live Fire Drills

Rajasthan , India- The Indo-US joint military exercise, Yudh Abhyas 2024, currently underway in Rajasthan , has reached its peak with dynamic tactical drills and intense field training sessions. The exercise, which began on 9th September, is scheduled to conclude on 21st September. Over the last two weeks, Indian and US forces have demonstrated a high level of coordination in combat operations, peacekeeping initiatives, and humanitarian tasks, solidifying their collaboration as key players in global security.

In the initial phase of the exercise, both contingents participated in Command Post Exercise (CPX) sessions with a concentrated focus on UN peacekeeping operations. These sessions highlighted the importance of civil-military coordination and the role of humanitarian activities in maintaining global stability. Military staff officers were briefed on UN peacekeeping mandates and how both armies could synergize efforts to meet these objectives. This component underscores the shared vision of India and the United States to play an active role in ensuring peace and stability through their contributions to UN missions. 

Counter-Terrorism Training Takes Center Stage 

With counter-terrorism being a critical concern for both nations, this year’s exercise emphasized joint counter-terrorism operations. The training modules provided troops with real-time experience in urban warfare and counter-insurgency strategies, drawing on the contingents’ extensive experience in conflict zones across the world. Drills included fire and movement tactics, close-quarter battle techniques, and advanced counter-drone operations. This comprehensive training enhanced the troops' ability to respond swiftly to the growing threat of non-state actors and insurgents.

These exercises are crucial in improving the operational preparedness and decision-making capabilities of both forces. The soldiers actively participated in simulations of combat scenarios faced in conflict zones, with a particular focus on combating evolving threats such as global terrorism and insurgencies. 

Field Training and Live Fire Exercises 

The Field Training Exercise (FTX) phase of Yudh Abhyas 2024 has been one of the most engaging elements, with a focus on practical applications of combat techniques. Indian and US military engineers worked jointly on field engineering tasks, further enhancing interoperability between the two nations’ forces. The real-world scenarios in the field allowed troops to test their strategies in a variety of complex situations, refining their response mechanisms.

The live fire drills, which included the US M-777 Ultra-Light Howitzers and Indian Artillery units, showcased precision targeting and coordination under high-pressure situations. In addition to artillery, joint air operations involving Advanced Light Helicopters (ALH) and Apache AH-64 helicopters displayed coordinated air support capabilities, bolstering operational synergy in high-intensity environments. PINAKA Multi-Barrel Rocket Launchers (MBRL), among other advanced weapon systems, were used in the drills to simulate battlefield conditions, highlighting both nations' preparedness for a variety of combat environments. 

Strengthening Interoperability and Defence Ties 

As part of the broader scope of the exercise, cultural exchanges have played a significant role in building trust and camaraderie between the Indian and US forces. Joint activities, such as field tactical drills and dummy medical casualty evacuations, reflect the focus on interoperability and mutual understanding. These exercises not only solidify the collaborative defence capabilities of both nations but also deepen the strategic partnership between India and the US in the context of the Indo-Pacific region’s security dynamics.

The exercise will culminate with a grand live-fire demonstration, where both contingents will display the full spectrum of operational skills developed during Yudh Abhyas 2024. This event will serve as a testament to the joint operational readiness achieved through this intense and collaborative military exercise, marking another milestone in the growing military partnership between India and the United States.