Amid Geopolitical Strains, Indian Troops Land In Alaska For Joint Drills

India-West News Desk

JUNEAU, AS – A contingent of the Indian Army has landed at Fort Wainwright, marking the commencement of the 21st edition of ‘Yudh Abhyas 2025’, scheduled from September 1 to 14.

The joint drills arrive amid geopolitical complexities, including heightened trade and diplomatic tensions between the two countries, highlighting the broader context in which this military collaboration unfolds.

Alongside troops from the US 11th Airborne Division, the forces will train in heliborne operations, mountain warfare, UAS and counter-UAS tactics, and joint tactical drills, enhancing UN peacekeeping readiness and multi-domain operational capabilities.

The Indian team comprises soldiers from a battalion of the Madras Regiment, while their American counterparts are from the 1st Battalion, 5th Infantry Regiment—known as the “Bobcats” of the Arctic Wolves Brigade, part of the US Army’s 11th Airborne Division.

Over the next two weeks, both forces will undertake an intensive schedule of tactical exercises, including heliborne operations, rockcraft, mountain warfare, casualty evacuation, combat medical training, and integration of artillery, aviation, and electronic warfare systems. Subject-matter experts from both nations will also lead joint working groups on information warfare, UAS/counter-UAS operations, communications, and logistical coordination.

The exercise will culminate with jointly planned tactical maneuvers, live-fire drills, and high-altitude combat simulations, underscoring a shared commitment to UN peacekeeping readiness and enhanced operational interoperability.

‘Yudh Abhyas’, a flagship of Indo-US defence cooperation, not only strengthens military ties but also reflects the evolving strategic convergence between the world’s two largest democracies.