India-US Yudh Abhyas Military Drill: India and the United States will hold the largest version of their yearly military exercise, Yudh Abhyas, in Alaska from September 1 to14 2025. This time the drill will see more than 400 Indian soldiers taking part, which is the biggest number from India so far. The Madras Regiment, known for its long combat experience, will lead the Indian team.
The soldiers will train together for counter-terrorism operations under the United Nations’ Chapter VII rules, which allow peace enforcement missions. Even though both countries are dealing with tariff issues in trade, this joint exercise shows that their defence partnership remains strong.
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India-US Yudh Abhyas Military Drill
The training this year will be bigger and more advanced, with both sides working together in live field exercises and realistic combat situations. They will practice how to deal with terrorist threats, plan joint operations, and operate together in tough terrains. This edition is important because it is the first field training between India and the US after India’s Operation Sindoor, a military action that showed strong joint warfare skills.
First trials of Stryker combat vehicle
One of the main highlights of this year’s Yudh Abhyas will be the first-ever trials of the US amphibious version of the Stryker combat vehicle in front of Indian forces. India had earlier shown interest in this vehicle, and the upcoming trials in Alaska could help India decide whether to buy it in the future.
Since the start of Yudh Abhyas in 2004, the drill has taken place alternately in India and the US, with each year adding more complex and modern training. The 2024 edition took place at the Mahajan Field Firing Ranges in Rajasthan.
This year’s bigger troop numbers and new equipment trials show that both countries are working more closely in defence, even while dealing with trade tensions connected to the tariff policies of former US President Donald Trump. But beyond just weapons and drills, the exercise helps both armies build trust and learn each other’s ways of working in the field.
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Security concerns
The exercise is also happening at a time when the region’s security situation is complicated. Recently, the US expressed support for Pakistan and praised its efforts against terrorism. This happened during the visit of Pakistan’s Army Chief, Field Marshal Asim Munir, to Washington. During that visit, the Trump administration also declared the Balochistan Liberation Army as a foreign terrorist organisation.
