NEW DELHI, SEPT 15: The 22nd edition of the India-US joint military exercise Yudh Abhyas 2026 commenced on Tuesday with around 600 personnel from both armies participating simultaneously at Auli in Uttarakhand and Mahajan Field Firing Ranges in Rajasthan, marking another major step towards strengthening battlefield interoperability between the two forces.
The exercise is focused on enhancing the joint military capability of the Indian and US armies in the employment of Integrated Battle Groups (IBGs) across mountainous and semi-mountainous terrain, with infantry-dominated operations forming a key component of the training.
The bilateral drill will provide troops from both sides an opportunity to exchange operational experience, refine joint planning procedures and practise coordinated execution of military missions in challenging terrain and complex operational environments.
A major thrust of Yudh Abhyas 2026 is the integration of advanced technology into battlefield operations. Soldiers will train in the employment of drones and autonomous systems for surveillance and reconnaissance, while specialised exchanges will focus on emerging technologies and multi-domain operations.
The exercise is also aimed at strengthening the ability of the two armies to operate together across diverse terrain and under demanding operational conditions, while sharing best practices and improving tactical coordination.
The emphasis on autonomous systems, emerging technologies and multi-domain capabilities reflects the growing importance of technology-driven warfare and the Indian Army’s push towards innovation and transformation under the JAISE VIJAY vision.
The exercise is expected to further deepen military cooperation between India and the United States while enhancing the preparedness of both armies to undertake coordinated operations in varied and increasingly technology-intensive battlefields.
