Indo-US Armies commence massive Joint Exercise ‘Yudh Abhyas’ for neutralization of threats of varied nature

Washington, September 17: The two-week 13th Indo-US Joint Military Training Exercise Yudh Abhyas – 2017 commenced on Saturday with an impressive opening ceremony at Joint Base Lewis McChord, Washington. The two armies will jointly train, plan and execute a series of well-developed operations for neutralization of threats of varied nature.

 

The US contingent was represented by Company of 5th Infantry Battalion from 20 Infantry Regiment of the US Army while the Indian side was represented by soldiers of Gorkha Rifles from the Surya Command. In the inaugural ceremony Major General Willard M Burlesan, GOC 7th Infantry Division, US Army welcomed the Indian soldiers and highlighted the commonly shared beliefs of democracy, freedom, equality and justice that are precious to both the nations.

During the two-week long exercise, soldiers from both countries will hone their tactical skills in counterinsurgency and counterterrorism operations under a joint brigade headquarters. Both sides will jointly train, plan and execute a series of well-developed tactical drills for neutralization of likely threats that may be encountered in UN peacekeeping operations. Experts from both sides will hold detailed discussions to share their experience and expertise on varied operational topics.

Notably, Exercise Yudh Abhyas is one of the largest joint running military training and defence corporation endeavors between India and USA. The two-week Indo-US Joint Military Training will strengthen both the armies in countering terrorism and various other threats. The exercise is also an ideal platform to learn from each other's experiences of planning and execution of operations.