Indian and US Armies Conclude Yudh Abhyas-24 in Bikaner, Rajasthan
The closing ceremony of the joint military exercise Yudh Abhyas-24 between the Indian Army and the US Army was held at the Mahajan Field Firing Range, marking the successful conclusion of the 20th edition of this bilateral exercise series.
Focus on Counter-Terrorism
Exercise Yudh Abhyas-24 focused on counter-terrorism operations in semi-urban and semi-desert terrain under the United Nations mandate. The exercise emphasized physical fitness, tactical drills, and the exchange of best practices, techniques, and procedures between the two armies.
Participation and Equipment
Indian and US troops carried out counter-terrorism drills, with choppers like the Apache attack helicopters and ALH Dhruv variants also participating. Around 600 troops from a battalion of the RAJPUT Regiment and personnel from other arms and services represented India, while the US side was represented by the 1-24 Battalion of the Alaska-based 11th Airborne Division.
Statements from Participants
Major Akanksha Rajput said, “I was part of FTX as part of the Corps of Engineers team in exercise Yudh Abhyas 2024. Our primary focus was on the counter-ID technique and obstacles breaching in support of infantry in counter-terrorism operations.”
Civil Affairs officer in the US Army, Captain Saima Durrani, said, “We are trying to build a great relationship with India and we are very happy to be here. We are excited to work alongside the Indian army…My grandfather and great-grandfather have served in the Indian army…I was born in the US but I always dreamt of coming back to India to see where my family comes from.”
Doubts Revealed
Yudh Abhyas-24 -: Yudh Abhyas-24 is the name of a military exercise where soldiers from India and the US practice working together. This was the 24th time they did this exercise.
Bikaner -: Bikaner is a city in the Indian state of Rajasthan. It is known for its rich history and beautiful palaces.
Rajasthan -: Rajasthan is a state in India known for its deserts, palaces, and vibrant culture. It is located in the northwestern part of the country.
Mahajan Field Firing Range -: The Mahajan Field Firing Range is a place in Rajasthan where the army practices using their weapons and conducts training exercises.
counter-terrorism operations -: Counter-terrorism operations are actions taken by the military or police to prevent or stop terrorist activities.
Apache helicopters -: Apache helicopters are advanced military helicopters used by the army for various missions, including attacking targets and supporting ground troops.
ALH Dhruv variants -: ALH Dhruv variants are different types of a helicopter made in India. ALH stands for Advanced Light Helicopter, and Dhruv is its name.
Major Akanksha Rajput -: Major Akanksha Rajput is an officer in the Indian Army who played a key role in the Yudh Abhyas-24 exercise.
Captain Saima Durrani -: Captain Saima Durrani is another officer in the Indian Army who also played an important role in the Yudh Abhyas-24 exercise.