India’s military forces engage in a robust calendar of exercises annually, both domestically and with international partners. These exercises serve as critical platforms to enhance combat readiness, foster knowledge exchange, and build strong defense ties with various nations.
The Indian military is poised to participate in an array of exercises that will further solidify its strategic capabilities and collaborative relationships on the global stage. This article delves into the Top Military Exercises in India For 2024.
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Domestic Exercises
The Indian military conducts several domestic exercises throughout the year to hone its internal operational efficiency and interoperability. These exercises, which include Gandiv Vijay, Paschim Lehar, Vayu Shakti, and Vijay Prahar, provide invaluable opportunities for the Army, Navy, and Air Force to refine their joint tactics, techniques, and procedures. By engaging in these rigorous training scenarios, India’s defense forces can seamlessly coordinate and integrate their capabilities, ensuring a unified and robust response to any contingency.
Exercise Cyber Suraksha – 2024
Recognizing the growing importance of cyber defense, the Indian military will conduct the comprehensive “Exercise Cyber Suraksha – 2024” from May 20-24, 2024. This exercise, spearheaded by the Defence Cyber Agency, aims to further develop the cybersecurity capabilities of all participating organizations and promote synergy among stakeholders. By fostering collaboration and integration, this exercise will strengthen India’s overall cyber resilience and preparedness.
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Bilateral Exercises
In addition to its domestic exercises, India actively engages in a wide range of bilateral military exercises with partner nations. These joint training events serve as platforms for knowledge sharing, capability development, and the strengthening of defense ties. Some of the key bilateral exercises scheduled for 2024 include:
Exercise SHAKTI (India-France)
The 7th edition of the India-France joint military exercise, SHAKTI, will commence on May 13th and run through May 26th, 2024. Held in Umroi, Meghalaya, this exercise will focus on enhancing the joint capabilities of both nations for multi-domain operations in semi-urban and mountainous terrains under the UN mandate. The exercise will involve tactical drills, intelligence sharing, and counter-terrorism operations, with the goal of fostering interoperability and bilateral defense cooperation.
Exercise AUSTRA HIND (India-Australia)
The India-Australia joint military exercise, AUSTRA HIND, is another key bilateral event scheduled for 2024. This exercise provides a platform for the armed forces of both countries to engage in a wide range of training activities, including counter-terrorism operations, humanitarian assistance, and disaster relief. By participating in AUSTRA HIND, India and Australia can strengthen their defense ties and learn from each other’s best practices.
Exercise SAMPRITI (India-Bangladesh)
The India-Bangladesh joint military exercise, SAMPRITI, is a longstanding bilateral event that will continue in 2024. This exercise focuses on enhancing interoperability and cooperation between the two nations’ armies, with a particular emphasis on counter-insurgency and counter-terrorism operations. SAMPRITI serves as a valuable opportunity for the armed forces of India and Bangladesh to deepen their understanding of each other’s operational doctrines and capabilities.
Exercise HAND IN HAND (India-China)
The India-China joint military exercise, HAND IN HAND, is a significant bilateral event that aims to promote trust and understanding between the two nations’ armed forces. In 2024, the exercise will provide a platform for the exchange of best practices in areas such as counter-terrorism operations, humanitarian assistance, and disaster relief. By participating in HAND IN HAND, India and China can work towards strengthening their defense cooperation and reducing the potential for misunderstandings.
Exercise EKUVERIN (India-Maldives)
The India-Maldives joint military exercise, EKUVERIN, is another important bilateral event scheduled for 2024. This exercise focuses on enhancing the interoperability of the two nations’ armies in the areas of counter-terrorism and humanitarian assistance. By participating in EKUVERIN, India and Maldives can deepen their defense partnership and contribute to the regional security and stability.
Exercise NOMADIC ELEPHANT (India-Mongolia)
The 16th edition of the India-Mongolia joint military exercise, NOMADIC ELEPHANT, commenced in July 2024 at the Foreign Training Node in Umroi, Meghalaya. This exercise provides a platform for the armed forces of both countries to share best practices and enhance their capabilities in areas such as counter-terrorism operations, peacekeeping, and high-altitude warfare. The exercise also serves as a valuable opportunity for cultural exchange and the strengthening of defense ties between India and Mongolia.
Multilateral Exercises
In addition to its bilateral exercises, India also participates in various multilateral military exercises that bring together the armed forces of multiple nations. These exercises not only enhance interoperability but also serve as platforms for diplomatic engagement and the promotion of regional security.
Exercise MALABAR
The MALABAR exercise is a prominent multilateral naval exercise involving the navies of India, the United States, Japan, and Australia. This exercise focuses on a wide range of maritime operations, including anti-submarine warfare, air defense, and amphibious operations. By participating in MALABAR, the involved nations can strengthen their defense cooperation and contribute to the maintenance of a free and open Indo-Pacific region.
Exercise COBRA GOLD
The COBRA GOLD exercise is a multinational military exercise that takes place in the Asia-Pacific region. Involving a diverse range of participating countries, this exercise focuses on enhancing regional security, humanitarian assistance, and disaster relief capabilities. India’s participation in COBRA GOLD provides an opportunity for the country to collaborate with its regional partners and contribute to the overall stability and resilience of the Asia-Pacific.
Exercise MILAN
The MILAN exercise is a biennial multilateral naval event hosted by the Indian Navy. Involving the participation of over 40 countries, this exercise provides a platform for the exchange of best practices, the strengthening of defense ties, and the promotion of maritime cooperation. By hosting and participating in MILAN, India can showcase its naval capabilities and solidify its position as a key player in the Indian Ocean region.
Exercise RIMPAC
The Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) exercise is the world’s largest international maritime warfare exercise, involving the participation of over 25 countries. As a regular participant, India’s involvement in RIMPAC allows it to enhance its maritime capabilities, foster international cooperation, and contribute to the maintenance of a rules-based global order.
Integrated Exercises
The Indian military also engages in a series of integrated exercises that bring together the capabilities of the Army, Navy, and Air Force. These exercises are designed to enhance joint operational planning, seamless coordination, and the effective utilization of multi-domain assets.
Exercise Kranti Mahotsav
The Exercise Kranti Mahotsav is an integrated exercise that involves the deployment of multi-role helicopters, showcasing the synergy between the Indian Army and the Indian Air Force. This exercise provides an opportunity for the two services to collaborate on tactical maneuvers, logistics, and the optimization of air support during various operational scenarios.
Exercise Chakra Drishti
The Exercise Chakra Drishti is another integrated exercise that involves the participation of fighter aircraft, remotely piloted aircraft, and airborne early warning and control systems. This exercise aims to enhance the joint planning and execution capabilities of the Indian Air Force and the Indian Army, with a focus on air defense, close air support, and intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) operations.
Exercise Long-Range Maritime Strike
The Exercise Long-Range Maritime Strike is an integrated exercise that brings together the capabilities of the Indian Air Force and the Indian Navy. This exercise focuses on the coordination and employment of fighter aircraft, transport aircraft, and airborne early warning and control systems in maritime strike operations, strengthening the armed forces’ ability to project power across the Indian Ocean region.
Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) Exercises
In addition to combat-oriented exercises, the Indian military also participates in exercises focused on humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HADR) operations. These exercises are designed to enhance the armed forces’ ability to respond effectively to natural calamities and humanitarian crises, both within India and in the broader region.
Operation Kaveri (Sudan)
During the recent political unrest in Sudan, the Indian military launched Operation Kaveri to evacuate Indian nationals from the country. This operation involved the coordinated efforts of the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force, showcasing their ability to rapidly deploy and conduct successful HADR missions in complex and challenging environments.
Operation Karuna (Myanmar)
Following the devastation caused by Cyclone Mocha in Myanmar, the Indian military launched Operation Karuna to provide humanitarian assistance and disaster relief to the affected areas. This operation involved the deployment of medical teams, relief supplies, and logistical support, demonstrating India’s commitment to regional cooperation and the provision of timely aid during times of crisis.
Brahmapuram Firefighting Assistance (India)
In 2024, the Indian Air Force provided critical assistance to local authorities in Kochi, India, during the firefighting operations at the Brahmapuram solid waste treatment plant. This exercise showcased the military’s ability to leverage its resources and expertise to support civilian authorities in managing complex emergency situations, enhancing the overall disaster response capabilities of the nation.
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Conclusion
The Indian military’s extensive calendar of exercises, both domestic and international, serves as a testament to its commitment to enhancing strategic capabilities, fostering defense cooperation, and contributing to global security. From bilateral engagements to multilateral collaborations, these exercises provide invaluable opportunities for the armed forces to refine their tactics, share knowledge, and strengthen their partnerships with like-minded nations.
As India continues to navigate an evolving geopolitical landscape, its robust military exercise program will play a crucial role in strengthening its defense posture, promoting regional stability, and solidifying its position as a key player on the global stage. By leveraging these exercises to drive innovation, improve interoperability, and deepen diplomatic ties, the Indian military is well-positioned to safeguard the nation’s interests and contribute to the maintenance of a rules-based international order.
FAQs
1. What is the latest military exercise of India in 2024?
Exercise MAITREE 2024 will run until July 15, featuring additional training activities designed to further strengthen the operational synergy between the Indian Army and the Royal Thai Army.
2. What is the name of the military exercise in India China?
“Hand in Hand” is the title of the joint military exercise conducted between India and China.
3. What is the largest naval exercise in India?
The Indian Navy is participating in the world’s largest naval military wargame, the Rim of the Pacific Exercise (RIMPAC) 2024, in Hawaii. For this exercise, the Indian Navy has deployed its frontline warship, INS Shivalik.
4. What is garuda exercise?
The GARUDA SHAKTI joint military exercise is part of the defense cooperation between India and Indonesia, aimed at improving understanding, collaboration, and interoperability between the special armed forces of both nations.
5. What is the name of the Navy exercise between India and France?
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