Indian and Vietnamese Troops Engage VINBAX 2024 to Enhance Peacekeeping Operations

Ambala, India - The fifth edition of the Vietnam-India Bilateral Army Exercise, known as "VINBAX 2024," officially commenced today in Ambala, marking a new chapter in military cooperation between India and Vietnam. Scheduled to run from November 4 to November 23, the exercise is being held in both Ambala and Chandimandir and represents a substantial expansion in scope compared to previous editions. For the first time, this exercise will feature bi-service participation, including personnel from the Indian and Vietnamese armies as well as their air forces.

The VINBAX 2024 exercise is a continuation of last year's successful joint exercise held in Vietnam. This year's event reflects the evolving defence partnership between the two nations and a commitment to enhancing bilateral cooperation and joint operational capability. The Indian Army contingent is represented by a 47-member team primarily from the Corps of Engineers, supported by personnel from other arms and services. Similarly, the Vietnamese contingent comprises troops from the Vietnam People’s Army with a similar strength, bringing together skilled engineers and supporting personnel.  

Focus on United Nations Peacekeeping Missions and Interoperability

In an unprecedented move, VINBAX 2024 has expanded to a bi-service exercise, incorporating participation from the air force units of both countries, marking a significant milestone in the Vietnam-India defence collaboration. This expansion in scope demonstrates the commitment of both nations to deepen and diversify their defence relationship.  

The primary objective of VINBAX 2024 is to strengthen the joint operational capacity of both armies in United Nations Peacekeeping Operations, specifically focusing on tasks under Chapter VII of the United Nations Charter. This chapter authorizes the use of force by peacekeeping contingents when necessary to maintain or restore international peace and security. The exercise will emphasize the deployment and operation of engineering companies and medical teams, preparing participants for complex UN peacekeeping roles, including building infrastructure, handling logistics, and providing medical support.

As a field training exercise, VINBAX 2024 will facilitate the sharing of technical skills, engineering practices, and medical support strategies between the two militaries. Both sides will engage in hands-on training, executing engineering and medical tasks tailored to peacekeeping and disaster relief contexts. The expanded scope and field-based approach underscore the importance of practical skill-sharing and joint tactical development, which will contribute to seamless interoperability between the Indian and Vietnamese forces.  

Key Highlights of VINBAX 2024

Validation Exercise and HADR Demonstration: The 48-hour validation exercise, a focal point of VINBAX 2024, will test the operational readiness of both contingents in simulated scenarios commonly encountered in UN missions. Additionally, the joint Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) demonstration will display critical skills in rapid response, casualty management, and infrastructure development under challenging conditions.  

• Technical Equipment Display: A comprehensive display of engineering and medical equipment will allow both armies to familiarize themselves with each other's tools and technologies, facilitating better coordination during joint operations. This display will cover everything from construction equipment for engineering tasks to medical facilities geared toward battlefield healthcare and disaster scenarios.  
• Cultural Exchange and Heritage Exploration: Beyond military operations, VINBAX 2024 will provide an avenue for cultural exchange, fostering a deeper understanding of each other's social backgrounds and heritage. This aspect of the exercise aims to build camaraderie and mutual respect between the contingents, strengthening the foundation for continued military collaboration.  

Enhancing Bilateral Relations and Mutual Confidence

VINBAX 2024 stands as a testament to the growing India-Vietnam strategic partnership, particularly in the realm of defence cooperation. The structured, hands-on format of the exercise highlights the emphasis on practical learning, where both contingents benefit from shared insights and operational best practices. By integrating both engineering and medical teams in a UN peacekeeping context, VINBAX 2024 will set the stage for even more extensive collaboration in future bilateral exercises.

The joint exercise reflects the shared vision of India and Vietnam to contribute proactively to regional and global peace. By focusing on UN peacekeeping roles, VINBAX 2024 further aligns with India’s longstanding commitment to UN missions and supports Vietnam’s increasing involvement in global peace efforts. This exercise also represents a broader shift in India-Vietnam defence relations, moving towards advanced levels of tactical cooperation and mutual understanding.