New Delhi | The eighth edition of the bilateral military exercise Ajeya Warrior-25 between India and the United Kingdom has commenced at the Mahajan Field Firing Ranges in Rajasthan. The exercise, being held from November 17 to 30, brings together 240 soldiers from both nations and aims to enhance interoperability, tactical coordination, and counter-terror capabilities.
Launched in 2011, Ajeya Warrior is conducted every two years and has grown into a key pillar of India–UK defence cooperation.
Sikh Regiment and Royal Gurkha Rifles Lead the Drills
The Indian Army is being represented by troops from the Sikh Regiment, while the UK contingent comprises soldiers from the Royal Gurkha Rifles. The exercise is designed under the UN Chapter VII mandate, focusing on peacekeeping responsibilities and counter-terrorism operations in challenging environments.
Army officials emphasised that the joint drills will sharpen operational synergy and allow both sides to share best practices, combat strategies, and technological integration.
Counter-Terror Training in Semi-Urban Terrain
Ajeya Warrior-25 places special emphasis on counter-terror operations in semi-urban areas. During the 14-day engagement, both armies will train in a simulated environment resembling real-world conflict zones.
The key components of the exercise include:
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Joint mission planning at brigade level
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Integrated tactical drills involving infantry, artillery, and air support
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Simulation-based training to enhance real-time decision-making
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Company-level field training exercises in Rajasthan’s harsh desert conditions
Troops will practice locating and neutralising hostile hideouts, conducting coordinated movements in difficult terrain, and executing joint operations under intense heat and sandy terrain typical of the Mahajan ranges.
Strengthening India–UK Defence Partnership
Over the past seven editions, Ajeya Warrior has evolved to include high-intensity training modules, urban warfare techniques, and counter-insurgency operations. The 2025 edition further reinforces military ties between New Delhi and London.
Officials noted that the drills highlight the long-standing defence partnership and help both armies deepen professional understanding. Sharing operational experience, new technologies, and tactical innovations remains a core part of the exercise.
Realistic and Challenging Training Environment
The Mahajan Field Firing Range, located in the Thar desert region, is known for its extreme temperatures and difficult terrain. These conditions help simulate combat scenarios that demand high endurance, precision, and coordination.
During the exercise, soldiers will engage in:
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Reconnaissance of suspected terrorist locations
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Clearing operations in concealed or complex areas
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High-mobility manoeuvres in open desert terrain
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Coordinated assaults with multi-domain support
The Indian Army stated that joint exercises like Ajeya Warrior enhance operational synergy, forge stronger military bonds, and groom troops for global peacekeeping and counter-terror operations.
Ajeya Warrior-25 stands as a testament to the growing India–UK defence collaboration and continued commitment to regional and global security.
