Jaipur/New Delhi: US Ambassador to India Sergio Gor has described the ongoing Exercise Yudh Abhyas 2026 as a reflection of the growing defence partnership between India and the United States, highlighting the trust, interoperability and operational coordination demonstrated by troops from both countries.
Gor visited the Mahajan Field Firing Range in Rajasthan on Thursday, where Indian and US Army personnel are conducting joint training as part of the bilateral military exercise.
“Impressive to see US and Indian forces training together at Mahajan Field Firing Range,” Gor said in a post on X. He said the exercise demonstrated the strength of the defence relationship between the two countries and reflected their shared commitment to readiness and cooperation.
The Indian Army said the exercise has resulted in enhanced interoperability through integrated training across mountainous and desert environments. Troops from both sides have participated in coordinated drills involving small-arms firing, artillery, long-range weapon systems and attack helicopter operations.
The 22nd edition of Yudh Abhyas began with an opening ceremony at Auli in Uttarakhand on September 15. The exercise is being conducted simultaneously at Auli and the Mahajan Field Firing Range, bringing together around 600 personnel from each country.
The exercise is focused on improving the ability of the two armies to conduct coordinated operations involving Integrated Battle Groups in mountainous and semi-mountainous terrain, with particular emphasis on infantry-led operations.
Technology is another major component of this year’s exercise. According to the Ministry of Defence, participating forces are training with drones and autonomous systems for surveillance and reconnaissance, while contemporary weapon systems are also being demonstrated at the Mahajan range.
Subject Matter Experts from both armies are exchanging views on emerging technologies and developments in multi-domain warfare. The discussions are intended to facilitate the exchange of tactics, techniques and procedures and improve coordination during operations across varied terrains and operational environments.
The Indian Army has said the exercise is strengthening mutual understanding, operational coordination and confidence between the participating forces.
Yudh Abhyas 2026 is scheduled to conclude on September 28, with the exercise providing another platform for India and the US to deepen military-to-military cooperation and develop greater interoperability between their armed forces.
