India’s military diplomacy in top gear with back-to-back exercises

Last Updated10/09/2024

India-U.S. Army exercise Yudh Abhyas is set to begin on September 9; multilateral air exercise Tarang Shakti is in progress, while exercise Malabar is scheduled next month

India's military diplomacy has reached a new level of activity, with a series of joint exercises involving all three branches of the armed forces—Army, Navy, and Air Force—taking place over the last few months.
These exercises not only showcase India's growing defense cooperation but also serve as platforms for enhancing interoperability with partner nations across the globe.

The India-U.S. bilateral Army exercise Yudh Abhyas, set to commence on September 9, 2024, at the Mahajan field firing ranges in Rajasthan, will feature one of the largest contingents of U.S. personnel—around 600 troops.
This year's edition will see the U.S. Army deploying Stryker infantry vehicles and the M142 HIMARS (High Mobility Artillery Rocket System), underscoring the deepening strategic partnership between the two countries.
Talks are also underway to potentially procure Stryker vehicles for the Indian Army, with the possibility of manufacturing them domestically under license.
In addition to Yudh Abhyas, the Indian Army has been involved in other key engagements, including the Mitra Shakti exercise with Sri Lanka and participation in Mongolia’s Khaan Quest multinational peacekeeping exercise, reflecting India's expanding regional influence.

The Indian Air Force's multilateral exercise Tarang Shakti is currently underway in Jodhpur, with participation from eight countries, including the United States, Australia, Greece, Japan, Singapore, Sri Lanka, and the UAE.
Notably, the U.S. has deployed its iconic A-10 Thunderbolt II and F-16 jets, marking the first time these aircraft have flown over Indian airspace.
This follows India’s participation in other major air force exercises like Pitch Black in Australia and Red Flag in the U.S. earlier this year, which aim to enhance operational capabilities and foster greater cooperation among like-minded nations.

The Indian Navy, too, has been actively building its maritime partnerships. Exercise Varuna with France, held in early September 2024, saw the deployment of INS Tabar and a P-8I maritime patrol aircraft, marking the first time an Indian Navy aircraft was deployed in Europe.
These exercises are part of India's broader strategy to increase its presence in the Indo-Pacific and beyond.
Additionally, the Indian Navy participated in the Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) exercise hosted by the U.S. and deployed assets to joint drills with Russia and Brazil.
These engagements highlight India's focus on enhancing maritime security and cooperation in strategically critical regions such as the South China Sea, Mediterranean, and the Pacific Ocean.

India’s recent spate of military exercises and collaborations reflects its increasing role as a key player in global security dynamics.
These engagements, particularly with major powers like the U.S., Russia, and France, showcase India's commitment to fostering stronger military-to-military ties and contributing to global peace and security.
Furthermore, India’s participation in exercises like Tarang Shakti and Yudh Abhyas underscores its growing interest in enhancing technological cooperation, particularly in the areas of advanced defense systems and joint manufacturing.
By collaborating with global powers, India aims to modernize its forces and develop its indigenous defense capabilities, while also strengthening alliances and strategic partnerships in an increasingly multipolar world.