Knowledge Nugget | From Yudh Abhayas to LAMITIYE: Know India’s 5 recent joint military exercises

In recent news, the Indian and US armies have commenced their 22nd annual bilateral military exercise, Yudh Abhyas 2026. This exercise, held at the Auli Foreign Training Node in Uttarakhand and Mahajan Field Firing Range in Rajasthan’s Bikaner, focuses on improving joint operations in challenging terrain, integrating battle groups, infantry actions, drones, autonomous systems, and long-range precision fires.

The Indian Army's 14 Infantry Division and the US Army's 11th Airborne Division participated in the opening ceremony, which took place on September 15. The Ministry of Defence highlighted the importance of technology infusion and the use of modern equipment during the training.

Apart from Yudh Abhyas, India has also participated in several other joint military exercises recently. The 5th edition of India–Myanmar bilateral army exercise IMBAX 2026 began at Joint Training Node, Umroi, Meghalaya. This 14-day exercise aims to enhance interoperability and synergy for UN mandate operations through joint training between both armies.

Furthermore, the 11th edition of the India-Seychelles joint military exercise LAMITIYE took place at the Seychelles Defence Academy from March 9 to March 20, 2026. This biennial training event, which means 'friendship' in Seychelles Creole, focused on neutralizing likely threats in a semi-urban environment. The Indian contingent included personnel from the Assam Regiment and various Navy and Air Force units.

In addition, Exercise Sea Dragon 2026 took place at Andersen Air Force Base in Guam, involving the Indian Navy, Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force, Royal Australian Air Force, and the Royal New Zealand Air Force. This multinational Anti-Submarine Warfare training activity aimed to strengthen cooperation and improve anti-submarine warfare capabilities in the Indo-Pacific region.

Lastly, Exercise MILAN 2026, a multilateral war-game exercise hosted by the Indian Navy, concluded on February 25, 2026, with participation from 75 countries, 42 ships and submarines, and 29 aircraft. The theme of this exercise was 'Camaraderie, Cooperation, Collaboration,' and focused on enhancing interoperability, maritime domain awareness, and collective response capabilities.