The Armies of India and the USA have begun their annual bilateral defence exercise ‘Yudh Abhyas 2026’ from Tuesday, Sept. 15, 2026.

The 22nd edition of the drill commenced at Auli Foreign Training Node in Uttarakhand. 

Major General Amaresh Gunjan, General Officer Commanding, 14 Infantry Division and Colonel Benjamin Jackman, Commander, 1st Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 11th Airborne Division, US Army, addressed the participating contingents comprising of 600 personnel from each side, the Defence Ministry said. 

The exercise is simultaneously being conducted at Auli and Mahajan Field Firing Range in Rajasthan.

‘Yudh Abhyas 2026’ aims at “enhancing the joint military capability of both armies for employment of Integrated Battle Groups in mountainous and semi-mountainous terrain, with emphasis on infantry-dominated operations. It will strengthen interoperability, facilitate exchanges of best operational practices, and strengthen joint planning and execution,” the MoD said in a statement.

Technology infusion will form a key focus area. The training would include the employment of drones and autonomous systems for surveillance and reconnaissance. In addition, demonstration of contemporary weapon systems would also be undertaken at the Mahajan Field Firing Ranges, the statement added.

Subject Matter Experts from both Armies will also exchange views on emerging technologies and developments in multi-domain warfare.

The exercise provides an opportunity for both Armies to share tactics, techniques and procedures; and enhance their ability to undertake coordinated military operations across varied terrain and operational environment, the MoD said.