Joint Military Exercises: News & Discussion

The Military Issues & History Forum is a venue to discuss issues relating to the military aspects of the Indian Armed Forces, whether the past, present or future. We request members to kindly stay within the mandate of this forum and keep their exchanges of views, on a civilised level, however vehemently any disagreement may be felt. All feedback regarding forum usage may be sent to the moderators using the Feedback Form or by clicking the Report Post Icon in any objectionable post for proper action. Please note that the views expressed by the Members and Moderators on these discussion boards are that of the individuals only and do not reflect the official policy or view of the Bharat-Rakshak.com Website. Copyright Violation is strictly prohibited and may result in revocation of your posting rights - please read the FAQ for full details. Users must also abide by the Forum Guidelines at all times.
Post Reply
ramana
Forum Moderator
Posts: 59773
Joined: 01 Jan 1970 05:30

Joint Military Exercises: News & Discussion

Post by ramana »

I am starting a new thread where we discuss joint exercise between India and others for all services in this thread. Sticklers can still discuss the in the three IA,IAF & IN threads...
Idea is to see what is learned about Indian forces in these exercises. Equipment, tactics, morals, training for what missions etc....

Starting here with 11th Annual Yudh Abhyas in US for 2015.

Pacific Focus brings Indian troops to JBLM for 1st Time

As they prepared to welcome about 150 Indian Army soldiers to their installation for the first time, the soldiers at Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Washington, didn't know what to expect.

"A lot of guys had worked with the Iraqis and the Afghans, and the attitude was 'we're going to have to teach them and hold their hands,' but it's been the opposite," said Sgt. 1st Class Michael Zehring, the platoon sergeant for 1st Platoon, B Company, 1st Battalion, 23rd Infantry Regiment. "These guys are well trained, they're highly motivated. They can do anything we ask them to do or that we show them to do because that's how they already do things."

The Indian Army soldiers are at Joint Base Lewis-McChord for Exercise Yudh Abhyas, an annual bilateral exercise between India and the United States. This is the first time the exercise, which is in its 11th year, has taken place on Joint Base Lewis-McChord.

The Indian soldiers, from the 9th Mountain Brigade and its subordinate 6th Kumaon Battalion, arrived right around Labor Day, and they will be on post until Sept. 23, when the exercise culminates with a company-level live-fire field training exercise.

While they're in the U.S., they are training and working alongside soldiers from 1st Battalion, 23rd Infantry, which is part of the newly renamed 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 2nd Infantry Division. The brigade, which is assigned to the 7th Infantry Division at JBLM, previously was known as 3rd SBCT, 2nd Infantry Division.

The exercise with the Indians, which takes place during the even years in India and during the odd years in the U.S., is at JBLM this year to reinforce the Army's focus on the Pacific, said Brig. Gen. Rob Ulses, deputy commanding general for support for the 7th Infantry Division.

"We have forces assigned here who work the Pacific [area of operations], and with the rebalance to the Pacific, I think [Army leaders] wanted to showcase that," Ulses said.
In addition to the Indians, JBLM also is playing host to about 400 Japanese soldiers for the annual Rising Thunder exercise. The training, at Yakima Training Area, allows the Japanese room to maneuver their big vehicles and weapon systems, Ulses said.

"They, more than Yudh Abhyas, drive the training that's conducted so they can get what they need out of the training, but we use it as an opportunity to work on interoperability and our relationship," Ulses said.

The Japanese soldiers are training alongside a battalion of soldiers from 2nd SBCT, 2nd Infantry Division, and they're working on combined arms maneuver training, Ulses said.

"It's very unique that we have both the Japanese and Indian armies here," Ulses said. "It demonstrates the rebalance to the Pacific, but it also strengthens our capabilities and interoperability. For instance, if something were to happen, whether it's a shooting crisis or humanitarian crisis, we would have already done this exchange and we're not learning on the fly. We're building trust and confidence with our partners."

The Indian soldiers flew into JBLM on their own C-17 carrying their own equipment, Ulses said.

While they're in the U.S., they will simultaneously conduct a command post exercise that focuses on running a United Nations peacekeeping operation at the brigade level, a field training exercise focusing on counter-insurgency operations, and expert academic discussions on topics such as regional security, emerging challenges and the Army operating concept.

Since the exercise's opening ceremony on Sept. 9, the soldiers have been working on individual, team and squad level training.
The soldiers are focusing on weapons training, small unit tactical training and leader development, mixing classroom instruction with time on the range or in the field, said Lt. Col. Teddy Kleisner, commander of 1st Battalion, 23rd Infantry.

The goal is to prepare them for the company-level culminating event, where the soldiers will be required to conduct a cordon and search operation to seize high-value targets in a contested town as part of a major peacekeeping operation, Kleisner said.


On a typical day, the American soldiers show up at 6 a.m. to conduct physical fitness training with the Indians, Zehring said.

"So far we've played soccer, ultimate football, we've run – they're excellent runners," he said.

The soldiers then reconvene at 9 a.m. to begin the day's training, he said.

The soldiers have shot each other's weapons – the Indian Army uses the INSAS rifle.

The Indians were also very interested in the Stryker, which is a vehicle they don't have, Zehring said.

"They were very interested in spare tires, and I only say that because about 15 people asked about spare tires," he said. "I have a feeling if they have wheeled vehicles, they get flat tires quite a bit."

The Indians enjoyed learning about the Stryker's weapon systems and how an infantry unit can fight from the vehicle or use it as a rolling platform for cover and concealment, Zehring said.
The two infantry units have not had too much trouble integrating, even with a language barrier, particularly among the enlisted soldiers, Kleisner said.

"Because they're a competent army, when we say, 'hey, we're going to go seize this house,' we don't have to discuss it too much because they know what seizing a house looks like, and we know what seizing a house looks like," he said. "It's been cool to see it all come together."

It has also been easy to operate together, Kleisner said.

"Interoperability is actually easier at the tactical level," he said. "You see two different types of rifles, but they shoot the same type of ammo. To us, that's interoperable. Our tactics are interoperable, how we shoot, move and communicate."


Where issues could arise, potentially, is if the two units were to share communications equipment, Kleisner said, adding that for this exercise the Indians will use American equipment.

The Indian Army also doesn't commonly use night-vision goggles, which could translate into different considerations when planning operations.

"Night vision devices proliferate in our formations. For them, that is not the case," Kleisner said. "We've seen the difference in decision-making. Where we'd say we'd go in under the cover of darkness, they would come in a first light."

So far, the Indian soldiers have defied the soldiers' expectations.

"What's great for us to see is the general level of competence that we see in the Indian Army," Kleisner said. "It increases the amount of trust we have in them as future partners. It's good for us as a unit to experience this. We all have experience with the Iraqi and Afghan armies, where we trained them from the ground floor."

Outside of work, the Indian and American soldiers have been enjoying cultural exchanges and team-building events.

"Soldier to soldier, that's a great way to exchange culture and develop friendships and partnerships," Ulses said.

Despite some initial uncertainty or language barriers, it has not been difficult to integrate the Indians with the American soldiers, Ulses said.

"Quite frankly, when you're dealing with soldiers, soldiers kind of speak a universal language," he said. "Soldiering is soldiering."

The Indian soldiers are staying on post, and the Americans have been making sure they're well taken care of, Kleisner said. This includes visiting nearby Ruby Beach and catching a Seattle Mariners game or spending time on post.

"And I know throughout the ranks people are trading things," Zehring said. "Patches for patches, Leathermans for Army knives from the Indians. It's what the boys do."

The Indians also are sharing some of their culture – since they are eating at the brigade's dining facility on post, they brought one of their one of their cooks, their own spices and some jasmine rice.

{He means basmati rice!}{/I]

"They're able to augment our chow hall to make sure things are not excessively bland," Kleisner said. "It's been cool for our cooks to get that side of the training. It's some of the fun things on the side we have going on."

U.S. Soldiers with the 3rd Brigade, 2nd Infantry Division
U.S. Soldiers with the 3rd Brigade, 2nd Infantry Division and Indian Army troops from the 6th Battalion of the Kumaon Regiment, discuss tactics learned during close quarter battle drills during Yudh Abhyas 15 at Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Wash., Sept. 11. Yudh Abhyas is a joint U.S.-Indian Army bilateral Theater Security Cooperation Program exercise that provides both the U.S. and Indian Armies the opportunity to share combat experiences and skills. (Photo: Army)

So far, the feedback from his soldiers as well as the Indians has been positive, Kleisner said.

"There's definitely positive rapport between our ranks," he said. "We're impressed with their level of tactical competence, and they're impressed with our level of leader empowerment."

The Indian officers have already remarked about the role noncommissioned officers play in the U.S. Army, Kleisner said.

"Their NCOs seem competent, and they want to take the initiative, but I think they're just not empowered like ours are," he said.

Kleisner said his soldiers are learning lessons that will boost their ability to work with foreign partners.

"As an expeditionary Army, an Army that's going to deploy and work with international partners, this is giving us an opportunity to rehearse our integration with a foreign unit … so these aren't lessons we have to learn when we end up in combat with a foreign partner," he said. "What we'll end up doing is take a lot of lessons from this that will help us no matter where we go."




The big idea seems to be joint operations for a post nuclear field.

=================
SSridhar wrote:Let me post here, the exercises that the Indian Armed Forces conduct with forces of various other nations.

India-US

The Malabar series of exercise between the two navies was started in c. 1992, and it has since then evolved into involving integrated air and missile defense, antisubmarine and naval special warfare scenarios. India and the US signed a Framework for Maritime Security Co-operation in 2006. The increasing trust between the armed forces of the two countries led IAF to take part in the prestigious Red Flag exercise in circa 2008, and increase the complexity and sophistication of the Malabar series of the already on-going naval exercises. The increasing cooperation in counter-terrorism and intelligence sharing, especially after the Mumbai 26/11 attacks in c. 2008, made the two countries come together even closer. The IAF has since then been more or less a permanent fixture in what is generally acknowledged as the “Mother of all air combat exercises”, the Red Flag Exercises at Nellis Air Force base in Nevada. Thus after 45 years, the IAF and the USAF began to take part in bilateral exercises. In 1963, after the Chinese attack in c. 1962, India and the US had instituted ‘Op. Siksha’ which folded up very quickly as the US regime changed. Within a span of nine years, India and the US had conducted 60 joint military exercises by c. 2013. In September 2011, the Indian and American Coast Guard teams also began to engage with each other. By c. 2010, the two countries had conducted over 50 joint military exercises of increasing complexity in a span of only seven years, including nine exercises in circa 2010 alone, indicating the extent of growth of their ties. By c. 2010, India had also become the country with which the U.S. had the maximum number of joint defence exercises. The US and Indian Armies conduct three exercises every year, Vajra Prahar (between Special Forces), Shatrujeet (for counter insurgency and counter terrorism) and Yudh Abhyas (‘War Drill’ for infantry and armoured corps). Increasingly, Indian Army, Air Force and Navy conduct joint annual bilateral exercises with their American counterpart units as far away as Alaska or Okinawa (Habu Nag series of war games and joint amphibious exercises, the annual Salvage Exercises, SALVEX, between the two navies that are to do with techniques associated with diving and salvage etc). In c. 2012, the Indian Navy also joined the largest war game, led by the US Navy, Rim of the Pacific Exercise (RIMPAC) though no warship from the IN actually participated. It was only in c. 2014 that Indian Navy’s ships and aircraft took part in these exercises. In October 2012, the Indian and the US navies kicked off a deep-sea underwater rescue exercise using the DSRV (Deep Sea Rescue Vehicle) of the US Navy. This was a revival of the 1997 contract between the two navies which was rescinded by the US Government after the 1998 Pokhran explosion. By c. 2010, India was also conducting more exercises with American forces than with any other nation in the world. The interaction between the armed forces of India and the US had therefore become comprehensive, multi-dimensional and deep-rooted. It was during PM Modi's visit to the US in September 2014 that it was also agreed to further upgrade the level of the annual Malabar series of naval exercises. Already, the Malabar exercise is diverse including operation of aircraft carriers, maritime interdiction, combat fighters etc.

India-Australia

During a historic visit to Australia in June 2013, the Indian Defence Minister, A.K.Antony and his Australian counterpart issued a joint statement stating that a bilateral maritime exercise between the two navies will be held in c. 2015. India and Australia had participated together in multilateral maritime exercises in Malabar in 2007 and in Milan in 2012. The Indian Navy was invited to the October, 2013 International Fleet Review (IFR) in Sydney. In the trilateral dialogue involving India, Japan and Australia held in New Delhi in June 2015, maritime security, including freedom of navigation in the South China Sea and trilateral maritime cooperation in the Indian Ocean and Pacific Ocean were primarily discussed. Unnamed Indian defence sources claimed that India, Japan and Australia had decided to deepen their ties in all sectors, especially in the field of maritime security. It was also said that “Discussion on a possible trilateral naval exercise was held but no decision has been taken”. The first naval exercise, AUSINDEX-15, took place off Vishakapatnam during September 11-19, 2015.

India-Russia

With its long-standing friend and biggest defence supplier, Russia, India signed a “Strategic Partnership Agreement” in c. 2000. An annual INDRA-series of exercises was also instituted in c. 2003 including bi-annual peace-keeping drills. By c. 2010, India and Russia had conducted five of the Indra-series of exercises between the armies and the navies of the two nations. The two Air Forces also agreed to conduct joint exercises, Ex Avia Indra, from c. 2014. The decisions came during the Inter-Governmental Commission on Military Technical Cooperation meeting between Indian Defence Minister A K Antony and his Russian counterpart Sergey Shoigu in Moscow just two days after the Russian-built INS Vikramaditya aircraft carrier was handed over to the Indian Navy. The first exercise involving the “participation of fighter pilots, helicopter pilots, missile combat crew, as well as engineers from the Indian Air Force (IAF) along with their counterparts of the Russian Federation Air Force (RFAF)” was held near Caspian Sea between 25 Aug 2014 and 5 Sep 2014

India - France

India and France instituted the ‘Garuda’ series of exercises between their respective air forces and ‘Varuna’ between their navies. The Indian and French navies have been conducting joint exercises since c. 1983 but these were named Varuna in c. 2001 after they were upgraded in scope. In c. 2011, the two armies also conducted for the first time a two-week counter-insurgency and counter-terrorism exercise, called Op. Shakti. In September 2013, the two armies conducted a high-altitude combat exercise in the Alps under Op. Shakti.

India - UK

India and the UK had the ‘Indradanush’ series of airforce exercises. India and the UK navies also conduct annually the Konkan exercises since c. 2004. In June 2010, the Indian and the British armies instituted an annual infantry exercise codenamed, ‘Shamsheer Bugle’ alternatively in India and the UK. India and the UK also instituted an army-to-army exercise in c. 2008 called Ajeya Warrior which simulates joint operation.

India - Singapore

Singapore, entered into a Defence Cooperation Agreement with India in c. 2003 which paved the way for intense exercises between the Singaporean forces and the Indian armed forces. Though the two countries have a long-standing defence agreement dating back to the days of Mrs. Indira Gandhi and Mr. Lee Kuan Yew , it has been only in the new millennia that they have reached greater heights. The two Armies and the two Air Forces signed agreements to conduct joint exercises twice a year and the two Navies, once a year. The two armies conduct the annual ‘Kurukshetra’ series of exercises where the armour, artillery and combat groups of both nations take part. The Air Force exercise, ‘Sindex’ and the Naval exercises ‘SIMBEX’ (Singapore-India Maritime Bilateral Exercise held since c. 1994) have since then become regular affairs. Operational interaction between the Indian and Singaporean navies began with anti-submarine warfare training exercises in c. 1994. Apart from these regular exercises, the defence establishments of the two countries are involved in regular interaction through visits, courses, professional exchanges and defence technology cooperation. In addition, the Secretary-level India-Singapore Defence Policy Dialogue is an annual and regular feature. In October 2007, India and Singapore signed an agreement by which India allowed the Republic of Singapore Army to lease Indian facilities on a long term basis to locate their personnel and assets and indulge in training. In August 2008, a similar agreement allowed facilities for the Republic of Singapore Airforce. The Airforce agreement was extended in c. 2012 until c. 2017 while the Army agreement was extended in June 2013 for another five years during defence minister A.K.Antony’s visit to Singapore.

India - Thailand

Indian and Thailand navies instituted a joint co-ordinated patrol of the Andaman Sea (Indo-Thai CORPAT) in c. 2006 and which has become a bi-annual feature since then across the International Maritime Boundary Line (IMBL). In c. 2011, they agreed to deepen this cooperation to include defence industry & technology as well as “coordinated patrolling”, aimed at sanitising the busy but narrow and vulnerable Malacca Straits. In early 2011, India and Thailand agreed to strengthen defence cooperation by having senior official-level dialogue between their Defence Ministries. In c. 2015, during Indian Naval Chief Adm. R.K.Dhowan’s visit to Thailand, the two navies agreed to forge and enhance naval cooperation including sharing of data and information on shipping. They also decided to further strengthen relationship in accordance with India's "Act East Policy".

India - Japan

Since c. 2010, the Japanese Navy (Japanese Maritime Self Defence Force, or JMSDF) has also become part of the Malabar exercise. In c. 2007, a five-nation exercise (including Australia and Singapore) was conducted, which China objected to. The Malabar Series of exercises are no longer carried out just off the Malabar coast. The 2011 exercises were off Okinawa in Japan, but Japan itself pulled out because its Maritime forces were deeply involved in relief efforts following the earthquake and tsunami that devasted that country in March, 2011. During defence minister A.K.Antony’s visit to Japan in November, 2011, the two navies decided to expand their joint drills to unprecedented levels. In late 2011, during the Japanese PM Noda Yoshihiko’s visit to India, it was announced that the two navies would establish interoperability between them. India is the only other country, apart from the US, with which Japan would have such an interoperability. In June, 2012, the Indian and Japanese navies conducted their first bi-lateral joint exercise code named JIMEX-12 off the Japanese coast.

India - Mongolia

Since c. 2004, India and Mongolia have also been conducting joint military drills annually in counter-terrorism, counter-insurgency and peacekeeping operations, code-named ‘Nomadic Elephant’. India has also been participating in ‘Khan Quest’, the annual Mongolian-hosted joint-training exercise aimed at enhancing cooperation among regional militaries from democratic countries including South Korea, Japan, Thailand and the US. During the Indian President Pratibha Patil’s visit to Mongolia in August 2011, the two countries signed a defence cooperation agreement.

India - Indonesia

The armies of India and Indonesia (Indonesian National Army (Tentara Nasional Indonesia-Angkatan Darat, TNI-AD) also conduct counter-insurgency and counter-terrorism drills called Chakravyuh. During the visit to India by the Indonesian President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono in January 2011, the two governments agreed to establish a defence dialogue mechanism and the first meeting between the defence ministers of the two countries took place in October 2012. The two sides signed the Agreement on Defence Cooperation in 2001 after which the two navies have been conducting coordinated patrols along the international maritime boundary line, known as Ind-Indo Corpat or India-Indonesia Coordinated Patrol. This is held twice a year in April and October where two ships from each navy do joint patrol of the seas against piracy, armed robbery, poaching, illegal immigration and drug and human trafficking. From April 2014, this was converted into a joint exercise with more vessels participating from either side to “develop interoperability and strengthen navy-to-navy ties”.

India - IBSA

As part of the India-Brazil-South Africa (IBSA) grouping, three large and developing democracies from three different continents, the navies of these three countries have been holding annual joint exercises, IBSAMAR, since May 2008.

India - Myanmar

In March 2013, Indian and Myanmarese Navies conducted a joint exercise for the first time and in July 2013, India announced a plan to build Off-shore Patrol Vessels (OPVs) for Myanmar. India simultaneously announced plans to further increase intake of Myanmarese army, naval and airforce personnel for training in Indian military institutions. Myanmarese pilots will be trained to fly the Russian-origin Mi-35 attack helicopters, as part the overall "capacity building and enhancement" plan.

India - Saudi Arabia

In April 2011, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and India decided to enhance their military-to-miltary contacts and planned a series of exercises between their armies and navies. During the visit of the then Crown Prince and later Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman to New Delhi, the two countries signed a memorandum of understanding on defense cooperation. The MOU was subsequently ratified by both sides in March 2015. In February 2012, the Indian Defence Minister A.K.Antony visited Saudi Arabia with a high powered military team to strengthen defence ties and broaden engagement with that country. During the visit, both countries agreed to set up a joint committee to work out a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on defence cooperation, another MoU on cooperation in the field of hydrography, joint military exercises and high level visits, etc. Importantly, the committee would also explore the possibility of cooperation between the defence industries of the two countries. History was made in early August 2015, when the IAF contingent returning from the UK after Ex. Indradanush landed at the Taif airbase. It was the first visit of fighter planes of the IAF to any Saudi airbase.

India - Oman

Since c. 1993, Indian Navy and the Royal Navy of Oman have been conducting joint naval exercises codenamed, ‘Naseem Al Bahr’, establishing a’a good measure of interoperability’. The scope and content of the exercise has also increased progressively. A large number of Royal Oman Navy personnel undergo training at Indian Navy’s premier training institute at Lonavala. Indian and Omani air forces have been conducting ‘Eastern Bridge’ series of exercises since c. 2009.

India - China


Even China and India, in spite of their lingering border dispute and mistrust, have conducted by c. 2010 two Hand-in-Hand (HiH) army exercises as part of Confidence Building Measures (CBMs). The first exercise was in Kunming in c. 2007 and the next at Belgaum in c. 2009. There was an interruption in the military-to-military contacts after the issue of denial of visa to the Indian Northern Command’s Chief by the Chinese in c. 2010 but by May, 2011, the two sides began to resume the contacts.

India - Sri Lanka


India and Sri Lanka who have a deep defence understanding, instituted the ‘SLINEX 11’, an exercise interrupted for six years due to internal strife in Sri Lanka. For many years, India has trained thousands of Sri Lankan personnel at its military institutions ranging from Counter-insurgency and Jungle Warfare School (CIJWS) at Vairengte (Mizoram) to School of Artillery at Devlali (Maharashtra), apart from providing specialized naval courses in gunnery, navigation, communication and anti-submarine warfare. In October 2014, the two nations also instituted Mitra Shakti, an initiative designed largely by the Army after the successful outcome of the ‘Annual Defence Dialogue’ that was co-chaired in Colombo. A contingent of 42 Indian Army special forces troops landed in Lanka in November 2014 to launch the military training exercise ‘Mitra Shakti’ at Uva-Kudaoyo Commando Regiment training school. In the three-week session, the Army shared military warfare expertise with its Lankan counterparts.

India - Maldives

With the Maldives National Defence Forces (MNDF), India has been conducting an annual joint military exercise codenamed EKUVERIN, since 2009. In c. 2012, there was also a joint Naval/Coast Guard exercise off Male involving India, Sri Lanka and the Maldives, codenamed DOSTI XI. The Dosti exercise was institutionalized between the Coast guards of India and Maldives in c. 1991. Sri Lankan Navy joined it in c. 2012. The Dosti series of exercises have become a regular feature among the three nations. This trilateral grouping of navies attends to piracy and other illegal activities. This trilateral grouping was extended in March 2014 by including Seychelles and Mauritius.

India - Nepal

India has been conducting battalion-level exercises with the Nepalese Army since c. 2011. The exercise is named Surya Kiran.

India - Bangladesh


For the first time, India and Bangladesh conducted a joint military exercise, codenamed ‘Op Exercise Unity’ (Op Sampriti), lasting 14 days in Jorhat, Assam in the first half of November, 2010. This followed the steadily and rapidly improving relationship between the two nations.
Last edited by SSridhar on 24 Oct 2015 05:53, edited 2 times in total.
Aditya G
BRF Oldie
Posts: 3565
Joined: 19 Feb 2002 12:31
Contact:

Re: Joint India-US, UK, PRC, Others Exercises News & Discuss

Post by Aditya G »

A suggestion: Foreign Ops & Deployments thread should be used to cover this topic.
ramana
Forum Moderator
Posts: 59773
Joined: 01 Jan 1970 05:30

Re: Joint India-US, UK, PRC, Others Exercises News & Discuss

Post by ramana »

I want to cover military cooperation exercises here. You will see once we develop a body of material.
SSridhar wrote:After LAC face-off, India & China to hold joint exercise - Rajat Pandit, ToI
Notwithstanding frequent troop face-offs along the Line of Actual Control, including the recent one at Burtse in Ladakh, India and China are now all set to conduct another bilateral "Hand-in-Hand" (HiH) military exercise as a confidence-building measure between the world's largest and second-largest armies.

Sources say the HiH exercise will be held at Kunming in China from October 11 to 23, with India earmarking a detachment of soldiers from the famed Naga Regiment to match their combat skills with People's Liberation (PLA) troops there.

This comes soon after the two armies operationalised their fifth border personnel meeting (BPM) point at Daulat Beg Oldi last month, which adds to the existing ones at Chushul (Ladakh), Nathu La (Sikkim), Bum La and Kibithu (Arunachal).

The HiH exercises, additional BPM points, the border defence cooperation agreement inked in October 2013 and proposed hotlines between top commanders, are all designed to bridge the "trust deficit" between the two armies ranged against each other along the 4,057-km LAC.

But though not a shot has been fired along the LAC for decades now, it cannot mask the wariness with which the Indian security establishment is viewing the accelerated modernisation of the PLA, which is acquiring potent trans-border, space and cyberspace military capabilities at a rapid clip.

Even though there is realisation that China is primarily trying to counter the ongoing "rebalance" of US military forces to the Asia-Pacific, the expanding footprint of Chinese nuclear and conventional submarines in the Indian Ocean Region over the last year has only served to accentuate the concerns here.
SSridhar
Forum Moderator
Posts: 25085
Joined: 05 May 2001 11:31
Location: Chennai

Re: Joint India-US, UK, PRC, Others Exercises News & Discuss

Post by SSridhar »

Let me post here, the exercises that the Indian Armed Forces conduct with forces of various other nations.
(In alphabetical order}

Objectives

These exercises are aimed at improving defence cooperation between India and defence forces of the partner countries and enhance their ability to operate as integrated forces in a well-coordinated manner at the tactical level, within the framework of UN peacekeeping operations. In the process, India has vastly improved its infrastructure for such exercises as well. For example, the Mahajan Field Firing Range in South Western Command has been developed into a world class training node over a period of three years and is being used extensively for carrying out joint exercises with friendly countries like Russia, USA, UK, France, Thailand and Kazakhstan.. As many as 38 countries send the personnel of their armed forces to India for training (c. 2015 data).

India-Australia

The India-Australia military exercise has gone through a long gestation period. The two countries had signed earlier the Memorandum of Understanding on Defence Cooperation concluded in 2006, and the Joint Declaration on Security Cooperation issued during the former Australian Prime Minister Kevin Rudd’s visit to India in 2009 deepened the understanding even further. India and Australia had participated together in multilateral maritime exercises in Malabar in 2007 and in Milan in 2012. However, after China strongly objected to the multilateral Malabar Exercise in c. 2007, the exercise was restricted to India and the US in the Indian waters and to India, the US and Japan whenever it took place in the Japanese waters. In c. 2013, Australia released a Country Strategy Document on India which identified the Indian Navy as possessing the most potential for a close maritime partnership. During a historic visit to Australia in June 2013, the Indian Defence Minister, A.K.Antony and his Australian counterpart issued a joint statement stating that a bilateral maritime exercise between the two navies will be held in c. 2015. The Indian Navy was invited to the October, 2013 International Fleet Review (IFR) in Sydney. During the hugely successful visit by the Indian Prime Minister, Narendra Modi to Canberra in November 2014, India and Australia also signed a Framework for Security Cooperation Agreement apart from other agreements. Mr. Modi said that the Framework for Security Cooperation Agreement was “for advancing regional peace and stability, and combating terrorism and trans-national crimes”. In the trilateral dialogue involving India, Japan and Australia held in New Delhi in June 2015, maritime security, including freedom of navigation in the South China Sea and trilateral maritime cooperation in the Indian Ocean and Pacific Ocean were primarily discussed. Unnamed Indian defence sources claimed that India, Japan and Australia had decided to deepen their ties in all sectors, especially in the field of maritime security. It was also said that “Discussion on a possible trilateral naval exercise was held but no decision has been taken”. The first naval exercise, AUSINDEX-15, eventually took place off Vishakapatnam during September 11-19, 2015.


India - Bangladesh


For the first time, India and Bangladesh conducted a joint military exercise, codenamed ‘Op Exercise Unity’ (Op Sampriti), lasting 14 days in Jorhat, Assam in the first half of November, 2010. This followed the steadily and rapidly improving relationship between the two nations.

India - China

Even China and India, in spite of their lingering border dispute and mistrust, have conducted by c. 2010 two Hand-in-Hand (HiH) army exercises as part of Confidence Building Measures (CBMs). The first exercise was in Kunming in c. 2007 and the next at Belgaum in c. 2009. There was an interruption in the military-to-military contacts after the issue of denial of visa to the Indian Northern Command’s Chief by the Chinese in c. 2010 but by May, 2011, the two sides began to resume the contacts.

India - France

India and France instituted the ‘Garuda’ series of exercises between their respective air forces and ‘Varuna’ between their navies. The Indian and French navies have been conducting joint exercises since c. 1983 but these were named Varuna in c. 2001 after they were upgraded in scope. In c. 2011, the two armies also conducted for the first time a two-week counter-insurgency and counter-terrorism exercise, called Op. Shakti. In September 2013, the two armies conducted a high-altitude combat exercise in the Alps under Op. Shakti.

India - IBSA

As part of the India-Brazil-South Africa (IBSA) grouping, three large and developing democracies from three different continents, the navies of these three countries have been holding annual joint exercises, IBSAMAR, since May 2008. These three countries have conducted by c. 2011, two trilateral naval exercises off Cape Town and Durban.

India - Indonesia

The armies of India and Indonesia (Indonesian National Army (Tentara Nasional Indonesia-Angkatan Darat, TNI-AD) also conduct counter-insurgency and counter-terrorism drills called Chakravyuh. During the visit to India by the Indonesian President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono in January 2011, the two governments agreed to establish a defence dialogue mechanism and the first meeting between the defence ministers of the two countries took place in October 2012. The two sides signed the Agreement on Defence Cooperation in 2001 after which the two navies have been conducting coordinated patrols along the international maritime boundary line, known as Ind-Indo Corpat or India-Indonesia Coordinated Patrol. This is held twice a year in April and October where two ships from each navy do joint patrol of the seas against piracy, armed robbery, poaching, illegal immigration and drug and human trafficking. From April 2014, this was converted into a joint exercise with more vessels participating from either side to “develop interoperability and strengthen navy-to-navy ties”.

India - Japan

Since c. 2010, the Japanese Navy (Japanese Maritime Self Defence Force, or JMSDF) has also become part of the Malabar exercise. In c. 2007, a five-nation exercise (including Australia and Singapore) was conducted, which China objected to. The Malabar Series of exercises are no longer carried out just off the Malabar coast. The 2011 exercises were off Okinawa in Japan, but Japan itself pulled out because its Maritime forces were deeply involved in relief efforts following the earthquake and tsunami that devasted that country in March, 2011. During defence minister A.K.Antony’s visit to Japan in November, 2011, the two navies decided to expand their joint drills to unprecedented levels. In late 2011, during the Japanese PM Noda Yoshihiko’s visit to India, it was announced that the two navies would establish interoperability between them. India is the only other country, apart from the US, with which Japan would have such an interoperability. In June, 2012, the Indian and Japanese navies conducted their first bi-lateral joint exercise code named JIMEX-12 off the Japanese coast.

India - Maldives

With the Maldives National Defence Forces (MNDF), India has been conducting an annual joint military exercise codenamed EKUVERIN, since 2009. In c. 2012, there was also a joint Naval/Coast Guard exercise off Male involving India, Sri Lanka and the Maldives, codenamed DOSTI XI. The Dosti exercise was institutionalized between the Coast guards of India and Maldives in c. 1991. Sri Lankan Navy joined it in c. 2012. The Dosti series of exercises have become a regular feature among the three nations. This trilateral grouping of navies attends to piracy and other illegal activities. This trilateral grouping was extended in March 2014 by including Seychelles and Mauritius.


MILAN


In its initiative to forge working-level jointmanship and interoperability among the Navies of the Indian Ocean Region (IOR ), the Indian Navy has been conducting a biennial exercise with navies of the region, called Exercise Milan, since 1995. The tenth edition in Februray 2014 was by far the largest with 17 countries participating in that. Ex. Milan is an international event aimed at enhancing mutual understanding and cooperation in anti-piracy and humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HDAR) operations among navies in the Bay of Bengal, South East Asia and the larger Indian Ocean region.

India - Mongolia

Since c. 2004, India and Mongolia have also been conducting joint military drills annually in counter-terrorism, counter-insurgency and peacekeeping operations, code-named ‘Nomadic Elephant’. India has also been participating in ‘Khan Quest’, the annual Mongolian-hosted joint-training exercise aimed at enhancing cooperation among regional militaries from democratic countries including South Korea, Japan, Thailand and the US. During the Indian President Pratibha Patil’s visit to Mongolia in August 2011, the two countries signed a defence cooperation agreement.

India - Myanmar

In March 2013, Indian and Myanmarese Navies conducted a joint exercise for the first time and in July 2013, India announced a plan to build Off-shore Patrol Vessels (OPVs) for Myanmar. India simultaneously announced plans to further increase intake of Myanmarese army, naval and airforce personnel for training in Indian military institutions. Myanmarese pilots will be trained to fly the Russian-origin Mi-35 attack helicopters, as part the overall "capacity building and enhancement" plan.

India - Nepal

India has been conducting battalion-level exercises with the Nepalese Army since c. 2011. The exercise is named Surya Kiran.

India - Oman

Since c. 1993, Indian Navy and the Royal Navy of Oman have been conducting joint naval exercises codenamed, ‘Naseem Al Bahr’, establishing a’a good measure of interoperability’. The scope and content of the exercise has also increased progressively. A large number of Royal Oman Navy personnel undergo training at Indian Navy’s premier training institute at Lonavala. Indian and Omani air forces have been conducting ‘Eastern Bridge’ series of exercises since c. 2009.


India-Russia

With its long-standing friend and biggest defence supplier, Russia, India signed a “Strategic Partnership Agreement” in c. 2000. An annual INDRA-series of exercises was also instituted in c. 2003 including bi-annual peace-keeping drills. By c. 2010, India and Russia had conducted five of the Indra-series of exercises between the armies and the navies of the two nations. The two Air Forces also agreed to conduct joint exercises, Ex Avia Indra, from c. 2014. The decisions came during the Inter-Governmental Commission on Military Technical Cooperation meeting between Indian Defence Minister A K Antony and his Russian counterpart Sergey Shoigu in Moscow just two days after the Russian-built INS Vikramaditya aircraft carrier was handed over to the Indian Navy. The first exercise involving the “participation of fighter pilots, helicopter pilots, missile combat crew, as well as engineers from the Indian Air Force (IAF) along with their counterparts of the Russian Federation Air Force (RFAF)” was held near Caspian Sea between 25 Aug 2014 and 5 Sep 2014

India - Saudi Arabia

In April 2011, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and India decided to enhance their military-to-miltary contacts and planned a series of exercises between their armies and navies. During the visit of the then Crown Prince and later Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman to New Delhi, the two countries signed a memorandum of understanding on defense cooperation. The MOU was subsequently ratified by both sides in March 2015. In February 2012, the Indian Defence Minister A.K.Antony visited Saudi Arabia with a high powered military team to strengthen defence ties and broaden engagement with that country. During the visit, both countries agreed to set up a joint committee to work out a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on defence cooperation, another MoU on cooperation in the field of hydrography, joint military exercises and high level visits, etc. Importantly, the committee would also explore the possibility of cooperation between the defence industries of the two countries. History was made in early August 2015, when the IAF contingent returning from the UK after Ex. Indradanush landed at the Taif airbase. It was the first visit of fighter planes of the IAF to any Saudi airbase.

India - Singapore

Singapore, entered into a Defence Cooperation Agreement with India in c. 2003 which paved the way for intense exercises between the Singaporean forces and the Indian armed forces. Though the two countries have a long-standing defence agreement dating back to the days of Mrs. Indira Gandhi and Mr. Lee Kuan Yew , it has been only in the new millennia that they have reached greater heights. The two Armies and the two Air Forces signed agreements to conduct joint exercises twice a year and the two Navies, once a year. The two armies conduct the annual ‘Kurukshetra’ series of exercises where the armour, artillery and combat groups of both nations take part. The Air Force exercise, ‘Sindex’ and the Naval exercises ‘SIMBEX’ (Singapore-India Maritime Bilateral Exercise held since c. 1994) have since then become regular affairs. Operational interaction between the Indian and Singaporean navies began with anti-submarine warfare training exercises in c. 1994. Apart from these regular exercises, the defence establishments of the two countries are involved in regular interaction through visits, courses, professional exchanges and defence technology cooperation. In addition, the Secretary-level India-Singapore Defence Policy Dialogue is an annual and regular feature. In October 2007, India and Singapore signed an agreement by which India allowed the Republic of Singapore Army to lease Indian facilities on a long term basis to locate their personnel and assets and indulge in training. In August 2008, a similar agreement allowed facilities for the Republic of Singapore Airforce. The Airforce agreement was extended in c. 2012 until c. 2017 while the Army agreement was extended in June 2013 for another five years during defence minister A.K.Antony’s visit to Singapore.

India - Sri Lanka

India and Sri Lanka who have a deep defence understanding, instituted the ‘SLINEX 11’, an exercise interrupted for six years due to internal strife in Sri Lanka. For many years, India has trained thousands of Sri Lankan personnel at its military institutions ranging from Counter-insurgency and Jungle Warfare School (CIJWS) at Vairengte (Mizoram) to School of Artillery at Devlali (Maharashtra), apart from providing specialized naval courses in gunnery, navigation, communication and anti-submarine warfare. In October 2014, the two nations also instituted Mitra Shakti, an initiative designed largely by the Army after the successful outcome of the ‘Annual Defence Dialogue’ that was co-chaired in Colombo. A contingent of 42 Indian Army special forces troops landed in Lanka in November 2014 to launch the military training exercise ‘Mitra Shakti’ at Uva-Kudaoyo Commando Regiment training school. In the three-week session, the Army shared military warfare expertise with its Lankan counterparts.

India - Thailand

Indian and Thailand navies instituted a joint co-ordinated patrol of the Andaman Sea (Indo-Thai CORPAT) in c. 2006 and which has become a bi-annual feature since then across the International Maritime Boundary Line (IMBL). In c. 2011, they agreed to deepen this cooperation to include defence industry & technology as well as “coordinated patrolling”, aimed at sanitising the busy but narrow and vulnerable Malacca Straits. In early 2011, India and Thailand agreed to strengthen defence cooperation by having senior official-level dialogue between their Defence Ministries. In c. 2015, during Indian Naval Chief Adm. R.K.Dhowan’s visit to Thailand, the two navies agreed to forge and enhance naval cooperation including sharing of data and information on shipping. They also decided to further strengthen relationship in accordance with India's "Act East Policy".

India - UK

India and the UK had the ‘Indradanush’ series of airforce exercises. India and the UK navies also conduct annually the Konkan exercises since c. 2004. In June 2010, the Indian and the British armies instituted an annual infantry exercise codenamed, ‘Shamsheer Bugle’ alternatively in India and the UK. India and the UK also instituted an army-to-army exercise in c. 2008 called Ajeya Warrior which simulates joint operation.

India-US

The Malabar series of exercise between the two navies was started in c. 1992, and it has since then evolved into involving integrated air and missile defense, antisubmarine and naval special warfare scenarios. India and the US signed a Framework for Maritime Security Co-operation in 2006. The increasing trust between the armed forces of the two countries led IAF to take part in the prestigious Red Flag exercise in circa 2008, and increase the complexity and sophistication of the Malabar series of the already on-going naval exercises. The increasing cooperation in counter-terrorism and intelligence sharing, especially after the Mumbai 26/11 attacks in c. 2008, made the two countries come together even closer. The IAF has since then been more or less a permanent fixture in what is generally acknowledged as the “Mother of all air combat exercises”, the Red Flag Exercises at Nellis Air Force base in Nevada. Thus after 45 years, the IAF and the USAF began to take part in bilateral exercises. In 1963, after the Chinese attack in c. 1962, India and the US had instituted ‘Op. Siksha’ which folded up very quickly as the US regime changed. Within a span of nine years, India and the US had conducted 60 joint military exercises by c. 2013. In September 2011, the Indian and American Coast Guard teams also began to engage with each other. By c. 2010, the two countries had conducted over 50 joint military exercises of increasing complexity in a span of only seven years, including nine exercises in circa 2010 alone, indicating the extent of growth of their ties. By c. 2010, India had also become the country with which the U.S. had the maximum number of joint defence exercises. The US and Indian Armies conduct three exercises every year, Vajra Prahar (between Special Forces), Shatrujeet (for counter insurgency and counter terrorism) and Yudh Abhyas (‘War Drill’ for infantry and armoured corps). Increasingly, Indian Army, Air Force and Navy conduct joint annual bilateral exercises with their American counterpart units as far away as Alaska or Okinawa (Habu Nag series of war games and joint amphibious exercises, the annual Salvage Exercises, SALVEX, between the two navies that are to do with techniques associated with diving and salvage etc). In c. 2012, the Indian Navy also joined the largest war game, led by the US Navy, Rim of the Pacific Exercise (RIMPAC) though no warship from the IN actually participated. It was only in c. 2014 that Indian Navy’s ships and aircraft took part in these exercises. In October 2012, the Indian and the US navies kicked off a deep-sea underwater rescue exercise using the DSRV (Deep Sea Rescue Vehicle) of the US Navy. This was a revival of the 1997 contract between the two navies which was rescinded by the US Government after the 1998 Pokhran explosion. By c. 2010, India was also conducting more exercises with American forces than with any other nation in the world. The interaction between the armed forces of India and the US had therefore become comprehensive, multi-dimensional and deep-rooted. It was during PM Modi's visit to the US in September 2014 that it was also agreed to further upgrade the level of the annual Malabar series of naval exercises. Already, the Malabar exercise is diverse including operation of aircraft carriers, maritime interdiction, combat fighters etc.

A 10-year Indo-U.S. defence pact, Defence Framework Agreement, signed in June 2005 was extended with more provisions and closer cooperation for another 10 years during President Obama’s second state visit to India in January 2015 to take part in India’s annual republic Day celebrations and was signed on June 3, 2015 when the US Defence Minister Ash Carter visited India. The new framework expanded the scope and frequency of the military exercises and included new partners such as Japan and Australia.


Likely Exercise Partners in Near Future

In June 2015, India and New Zealand signed an agreement to exchange navy personnel for training in each other’s country. Visiting Chief of New Zealand Navy Rear Admiral Jack Raymond Steer said in New Delhi, “New Zealand and India have similar maritime security issues in their respective oceans and across the Indo-Pacific trade routes. Therefore, we have a great deal to share in addressing each other’s security concerns”. During Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s 5-nation CAR tour in July 2015 combining the meetings of Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) and BRICS at Ufa, Russia, India and Kyrgyzstan signed an agreement to have an annual military exercise. India plans to conduct the largest exercise ever with 18 nations (10 ASEAN member countries plus their 8 dialogue partners) in Pune in March 2016. The exercise is called FTX-16 (Field Training Exercise-16).
Last edited by SSridhar on 03 Oct 2015 11:43, edited 8 times in total.
Reason: Forgot to include Milan! Also, some more updates.
Viv S
BRF Oldie
Posts: 5303
Joined: 03 Jan 2010 00:46

Re: Joint India-US, UK, PRC, Others Exercises News & Discuss

Post by Viv S »

SSridhar wrote:Let me post here, the exercises that the Indian Armed Forces conduct with forces of various other nations.
Would request you to copy your pst to a BR article/section, where we can add regular updates and revisions.
shaun
BRFite
Posts: 1385
Joined: 11 Aug 2016 06:14

Re: Joint India-US, UK, PRC, Others Exercises News & Discuss

Post by shaun »

Australian and Indian Navy Maritime Exercises AUSINDEX 2015
Image
Image
Image
Image
Image
ramana
Forum Moderator
Posts: 59773
Joined: 01 Jan 1970 05:30

Re: Joint India-US, UK, PRC, Others Exercises News & Discuss

Post by ramana »

Jhujar wrote:http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/sli ... 056077.cms
AUSINDEX 2015: Choicest images from India-Australia naval exercise
ramana
Forum Moderator
Posts: 59773
Joined: 01 Jan 1970 05:30

Re: Joint India-US, UK, PRC, Others Exercises News & Discuss

Post by ramana »

wig wrote:US warships that will participate in next month's excercise
Top of the line US warships and a nuclear powered submarine will be in the Bay of Bengal next month for a naval exercise involving the US, India and Japan. The USS Theodore Roosevelt, a 1 lakh tonne sea-borne aircraft carrier with space for 90 fighter jets and helicopters on board, will lead the US fleet.
It is currently deployed in the Persian Gulf and is used by the US to launch attacks on terror group IS-controlled areas. The nuclear powered warship is 332 m long and is one of the most potent warships from US’ Nimitz-class carriers.
Littoral combat ship USS Fort Worth, nuclear-powered Los Angeles-class submarine and guided-missile carrying cruiser USS Normandy will be part of the fleet for the naval exercise — ‘Malabar’.
The Indian Navy will field its stealth frigate INS Shivalik and warships INS Ranvir and INS Betwa, besides a diesel-electric powered submarine and a fleet tanker. The Japanese have so far confirmed the participation of its warship JS Fuyuzuki
http://www.tribuneindia.com/news/nation ... 36639.html
ramana
Forum Moderator
Posts: 59773
Joined: 01 Jan 1970 05:30

Re: Joint India-US, UK, PRC, Others Exercises News & Discuss

Post by ramana »

X-Posting....
SSridhar wrote:India-Japan defence ties set to grow stronger - PTI
Defence ties between India and Japan are set to grow stronger with both coming together for Malabar naval exercises in October and exploring possibility of having joint air exercises.

Japanese defence sources expressed satisfaction at the growth trajectory in the defence ties saying, "the direction is right. We need to work on it more".

"Japan is happy to be invited for the Indo-US naval exercise 'Malabar' slated for October in the Bay of Bengal," the sources told PTI, adding that the next step hopefully will be joint air exercise.


It is not just the cooperation at the level of forces that both countries are looking at. "There is a huge opportunity present in the defence manufacturing too especially in the context of Make in India," Indian defence sources said.

The importance that Japan puts on defence ties with India can be seen from the fact that the Japanese Embassy has added two more defence attaches here {New Delhi} - one each from the Air Force and Coast Guard -- this year.

"At present, there are only four countries other than India to which Japan sends its attaches from the three services and the Coast Guard. This shows how much importance we attach to the defence and maritime cooperation between Japan and India," Japanese Ambassador to India Takeshi Yagi said.


Amid increasing Chinese assertiveness in the Indo-Pacific region, Japan had in March during the visit of Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar sought enhanced cooperation with India in defence and security sector including in the field of maritime security.

Japan has been witnessing conflict with China over control of private islands in South China Sea. A territorial dispute even exists between China and Japan over the Senkaku Islands, which Beijing refers to as the Diaoyu Islands.

India considers relations with Japan very important, which is evident from the fact that Parrikar chose Japan as the first country to visit after assuming office of Defence Minister.
SSridhar
Forum Moderator
Posts: 25085
Joined: 05 May 2001 11:31
Location: Chennai

Re: Joint India-US, UK, PRC, Others Exercises News & Discuss

Post by SSridhar »

US, China to be part of Indian Army's largest joint drill in Pune next year - PTI
Indian Army will hold its largest ever multi-nation military exercise in Pune next year, in which all the ten member states of ASEAN and its eight dialogue partners including China, Japan, Russia and the US will participate.

Army sources said for the period of 2014-17, Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) had developed a roadmap to build common understanding to achieve interoperability in the fields of Humanitarian Mine Action and UN Peacekeeping Operations in the region.

"For the first time in the history, Indian Army will be conducting one of the largest multinational exercise in March 2016 in Pune," one of the sources said.

The sources added that the Field Training Exercise (FTX-2016) would involve participation from 18 ASEAN plus nations for a period of one week.

The countries that will take part in the joint exercises are the ASEAN's 10 member states and eight dialogue partner countries which are China, Japan, South Korea, the US, India, Russia, Australia and New Zealand.

"The FTX-2016 would promote practical cooperation and give opportunity to share and learn good practices from each other," a source said.

The Exercise Planning Conference for the FTX-2016 will start at Pune from tomorrow and end on September 30, and members from ASEAN Headquarters, Cambodia, Vietnam, South Korea and India would plan and coordinate the exercise events. Indian delegation is being led by Brigadier Ashok Narula from Army Headquarters, the sources said.

The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) is a political and economic organisation of ten Southeast Asian countries Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam. ASEAN and India reaffirmed their commitment to strengthen and advance the strategic partnership earlier this year and agreed to step-up cooperation.
This is significant. The ASEAN countries have extensive military contact with India and they find a level of comfort in achieving their roadmap with India. India is taking the lead in the regional military affairs, something that the US also has been demanding for some time now.
SSridhar
Forum Moderator
Posts: 25085
Joined: 05 May 2001 11:31
Location: Chennai

Re: Joint India-US, UK, PRC, Others Exercises News & Discuss

Post by SSridhar »

Geo-strategic push: Inaugural India-Indonesia bilateral maritime exercise from October 17 - Economic Times
India and Indonesia will expand strategic and defence ties by jointly conducting an inaugral maritime exercise which is scheduled from October 17 to October 18 in the Andaman Sea.

This bilateral exercise will be embedded in the expanded version of the coordinated patrol (CORPAT) which will commence from October 3 and continue till October 21.

INS Saryu, an indigenously built NOPV based at the Andaman and Nicobar Command, along with a Dornier Maritime Patrol Aircraft, shall participate in the 26th edition of the CORPAT being held this year.

INS Saryu entered Port Belawan, Indonesia on October 1, 2015 and is sailing out today for CORPAT with Indonesian Navy.

"Defence relations between India and Indonesia have been growing steadily with regular joint activities and exchange of personnel between the Armed Forces of the two countries. Under the broad ambit of this strategic partnership, the two navies have been carrying out Coordinated Patrolling (CORPAT) along the International Maritime Boundary Line (IMBL) twice a year since 2002, with the aim of keeping this vital part of the Indian Ocean Region safe and secure for commercial shipping and international trade," said a Defence Ministry press release.

The CORPAT has strengthened understanding and interoperability between the navies, instituting measures to prosecute vessels engaged in unlawful activities and conducting Search and Rescue as well as pollution control.

The release said that the importance of this bilateral cooperation has increased significantly with the scheduling of the first Bilateral Maritime Exercise along with the 26th edition of the CORPAT being held this year. The Bilateral Maritime Exercise and the CORPAT would see participation by one warship and one Maritime Patrol Aircraft from both sides.

The Opening Ceremony at Belawan, Indonesia from October 1 to October 3, was attended by Vice Admiral PK Chaterjee, the Commander-in-Chief of the Andaman and Nicobar Command.
SSridhar
Forum Moderator
Posts: 25085
Joined: 05 May 2001 11:31
Location: Chennai

Re: Joint India-US, UK, PRC, Others Exercises News & Discuss

Post by SSridhar »

USS Fort Worth in Chennai for Ex Malabar - The Hindu
Days before it is set to participate in the joint maritime exercise ‘Malabar’ with the Indian Navy and the Japan Maritime Self-Defence Force in the Bay of Bengal, US Navy’s USS Fort Worth called on Chennai port on Wednesday.

The Littoral Combat Ship, which recently participated in Cooperation Afloat Readiness and Training with the Bangladesh Navy, was berthed in Chennai port about 8.55 a.m., sources said. The Indian Navy is gearing up for the exercise in which USS Theodore Roosevelt is expected to participate.
brar_w
BRF Oldie
Posts: 10694
Joined: 11 Aug 2016 06:14

Re: Joint India-US, UK, PRC, Others Exercises News & Discuss

Post by brar_w »

SSridhar
Forum Moderator
Posts: 25085
Joined: 05 May 2001 11:31
Location: Chennai

Re: Joint India-US, UK, PRC, Others Exercises News & Discuss

Post by SSridhar »

Indian, Chinese army kick off anti-terrorism exercise - PTI
Indian and Chinese armies today kicked off their fifth annual anti-terrorism exercise in China's Kunming city as both the sides seek to share their successful experiences in counter-terrorism operations during the 10-day drill.

India for the first time fielded troops from Naga Regiment to take part in the exercises. A contingent of 175 troops from 2nd Battalion of Naga Regiment from Eastern Command reached Kunming by IAF IL-76 aircraft yesterday to take part in the exercise.

Both sides are fielding the same number of troops for the joint exercises, which will culminate on October 22, a press release from the Indian Embassy here said today.

Troops from 14 Corps of China's Chengdu Military Region, which focuses on borders with India are taking in the exercise. Troops of both sides will undergo intensive joint training, which will include displays, demonstrations, and a comprehensive joint exercise.

The purpose of the exercise is to develop joint operating capability, share useful experience in counter-terrorism operations and to promote friendly exchanges between the armies of India and China, the press release said.

Observer groups of both armies witnessed an impressive opening ceremony at Dabanqiao Training Base of 14 Group Army at Kunming today.

Indian Ambassador to China Ashok K Kantha and Head of Observers Delegation Lieutenant General Surinder Singh attended the meeting and addressed the participating troops.

From the Chinese side, Lieutenant General Zhou Xiaozhou addressed the participating troops. This is the fifth round of exercises being held by both sides.

The first drill was held in southwest China's Yunnan Province in 2007, followed by drills in Belgaum in Karnataka a in 2008. The third round was held in southwest China's Sichuan in 2013, followed by fourth in Pune in 2014.
Austin
BRF Oldie
Posts: 23387
Joined: 23 Jul 2000 11:31

Re: Joint India-US, UK, PRC, Others Exercises News & Discuss

Post by Austin »

via Sandeep Unithan

Image
Nick_S
BRFite
Posts: 533
Joined: 23 Jul 2011 16:05
Location: Abbatabad

Re: Joint India-US, UK, PRC, Others Exercises News & Discuss

Post by Nick_S »

Armies of India and China began their 5th Annual Military Exercise in the Kunming City on 12 October 2015

brar_w
BRF Oldie
Posts: 10694
Joined: 11 Aug 2016 06:14

Re: Joint India-US, UK, PRC, Others Exercises News & Discuss

Post by brar_w »

Japan To Join Malabar as Permanent Participant
NEW DELHI — The annual Malabar naval exercise, regarded as a forum of Indo-US military friendship, will include Japan as a permanent participant in the Oct. 12-19 "Malabar 2015 " version off southern India. Japan participated in earlier Malabar exercises, but only as an invited observer.

"Japan's participation as a permanent participant in the Malabar exercise marks a turning point in the relationship between the navies of India, US and Japan in the region," says Nitin Mehta, a defense analyst here.

Japan participated in the Malabar exercise hosted by India in 2007, but after a strong reaction from China against the inclusion of Japan and Australia, the exercises became largely bilateral thereafter, although Japan did participate in 2014.

The Malabar exercises commenced in 1992.

In Malabar 2015, the US Navy will participate with its aircraft carrier USS Theodore Roosevelt, cruiser USS Normandy, littoral combat ship USS Forth Worth, nuclear powered attack submarine USS City of Corpus Christi, and P-8A maritime surveillance aircraft.

The Indian Navy will participate with a Rajput-class destroyer, Shivalik-class and Brahmaputra-class frigates, a fleet support ship, Russian-made Kilo-class submarine INS Sindhudhwaj, and P-8I maritime surveillance aircraft.

Japan is fielding only JS Fuyuzuki, its Akizuki-class guided missile destroyer.

The main thrust of the Malabar 2015 will be to exercise in a scenario for destroying hostile submarines, surface warships and aircraft, an Indian Navy official said.
SSridhar
Forum Moderator
Posts: 25085
Joined: 05 May 2001 11:31
Location: Chennai

Re: Joint India-US, UK, PRC, Others Exercises News & Discuss

Post by SSridhar »

X-Post from China thread
India, US, Japan 'indispensable' partners for regional stability - PTI, Economic Times
CHENNAI: Navies of India, US and Japan today placed great importance on the ongoing trilateral naval exercise MALABAR-2015, with a top Japanese official describing the three countries as "indispensable partners" for regional stability.

Addressing reporters on board INS Shivalik here, senior officials of the three navies concurred that the initiative will help increase inter-operability between them against the backdrop of regional maritime peace.

Vice-Admiral B K Verma of the Indian Navy said the initiative will help increase inter-operability among the three participating navies.

"Learning doctrinal and operational aspects will go a long way in inter-operability," he said adding personnel from either side could benefit from exchange of ideas to explore implementing them in their respective countries.

Vice Admiral of Japanese Maritime Self-Defence Force (JMSDF) Y Murakawa appreciated the Indian navy for inviting his country to participate in the event, which has been on between India and US since 1992.

Japan is taking part in the exercise for the fourth time.

"We are very proud that three navies are further able to improve cooperation...the three navies are indispensable partners for regional stability," he said.

Vice Admiral J P Aucoin of the US Navy said his country had been partnering with India in the Malabar series of exercises since 1992, adding the two shared the common interest of a "stable economic environment" in the region.
He also commended his Japanese counterparts for their "high standards" of professional capabilities and looked forward to their participation in the future, too.

The three officials reiterated their navies' commitment to ensure free, open and peaceful maritime commerce in the Indo-Pacific region.

During the exercise, the Indian navy will be represented by INS Shivalik and INS Betwa, both indigenous frigates, guided missile destroyer INS Ranvijay and Fleet support ship INS Shakti.

Submarine INS Sindhudhvaj, Long Range Maritime aircraft P81 and integral rotary wing helicopters will also be part of the exercise which began yesterday.

The US Navy, for its part, will see ships from Carrier Task Force (CTF) 70 of the USN 7th Fleet, based in Japan, sail the waters along with Indian and Japanese vessels.
Image
In pic: INS Shivalik and INS Betwa docked at Chennai Port
SSridhar
Forum Moderator
Posts: 25085
Joined: 05 May 2001 11:31
Location: Chennai

Re: Joint India-US, UK, PRC, Others Exercises News & Discuss

Post by SSridhar »

Philip
BRF Oldie
Posts: 21538
Joined: 01 Jan 1970 05:30
Location: India

Re: Joint India-US, UK, PRC, Others Exercises News & Discuss

Post by Philip »

Looking at the sleek lines of the Shivalik,I cannot help but wonder why thje IN naval designers placed the MBUs just forward of the bridge.Sovioet designs had these MBUs placed forward of "A" turret.The high fo'c'sles allowed the placement of the MBUs there.The Shivaliks also have high fo;c'sles.By doing this,the space where the MBUs are currently located would give immense room for more missile silos. The P-17s/17As could have at least 16 BMos SSMs,plus at least 32+ SAM silos. If a UVLS is used,ASW Klubs,Nirbhay ,etc could also be theoretically carried.The main gun at A turret may have to be elevated slightly,but they are housed in stealth config. and would not matter.
Last edited by SSridhar on 24 Oct 2015 05:55, edited 1 time in total.
Reason: Wrong thread. Please move it.
JE Menon
Forum Moderator
Posts: 7127
Joined: 01 Jan 1970 05:30

Re: Joint India-US, UK, PRC, Others Exercises News & Discuss

Post by JE Menon »

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RdrxjD1PTos

Malabar - meeting of officers and press conference with statements.
SSridhar
Forum Moderator
Posts: 25085
Joined: 05 May 2001 11:31
Location: Chennai

Re: Joint Military Exercises News & Discussion

Post by SSridhar »

Malabar-2015 and Power Dynamics in the Asian Commons - Abhijit Singh, IDSA
Earlier this week, India, the United States and Japan completed Exercise Malabar, a joint multilateral naval exercise in the Bay of Bengal. This year the exercises were an improvement over previous engagements - owing not only to the close-coordinated nature of combat drills, but also because of the presence of Japanese navy that is taking part in an Indian Ocean iteration of the Malabar for the first time in eight years. Importantly, the interaction has transitioned from being an India-US bilateral engagement into a formal structured trilateral exercise, signifying a strategic push, which maritime analysts say is aimed at countering growing Chinese military presence in the Indian Ocean.

A clear symbol of warming strategic relations between the US and India, Exercise Malabar is the most wide-ranging professional interaction the Indian navy has with any of its partner maritime forces. Even so, the decision to include Japan as a permanent member came as a surprise, considering that New Delhi had been resisting overtures from the US to broaden the scope of the interaction.

Expectedly, China made its displeasure apparent, with the Global Times cautioning India against attempts at building an anti-China coalition in the Indo-Pacific region.1 Chinese analysts believe that India’s “multi-vectored diplomacy” which requires it to work constructively with all its partners does not allow it to be party to any moves to limit Chinese military power. Even so, India may have been compelled to raise the tempo of its participation in the Malabar at the behest of the United States, whose deployment of the aircraft carrier (USS Roosevelt) and a nuclear attack submarine (USS City of Corpus Christi) subtly pressured New Delhi to send the INS Sindhudhwaj (Kilo class submarine) and a P8 long-range patrol aircraft for the exercises.

More worrying for China is the inclusion of Japan in an India-US naval exercise, a move that may eventually end up reviving the maritime quadrilateral. In its original avatar in 2008, the “quad” – consisting of the navies of the US, India, Japan and Australia - had drawn sharp protests from Beijing. China’s strident reaction had forced India and Australia to withdraw from the grouping, acknowledging it to be an error of strategic judgment. Almost a decade later, growing People’s Liberation Army Navy (PLA-N) aggressiveness in the South China Sea seems to have reversed the consensus on keeping the peace with Beijing.

Last month, the Indian Navy (IN) embarked on a much publicised week-long maritime engagement with the Royal Australian Navy (RAN) in the Bay of Bengal - the first time the two navies met for a bilateral operational exchange in the Indian Ocean. The composition of the participating contingents -- especially the presence of a Collins class submarine and a P8 maritime surveillance aircraft – suggested an anti-China focus. Significantly, the AUSINDEX was held within weeks of Australia’s trilateral engagement with Japan and the US in the Southwestern Pacific in July, raising the possibility of a potential alliance of democracies to counter Chinese military activity in the Indian Ocean Region.

Speculation about an emerging ‘security quartet’ in the Asia-Pacific gained further momentum after the visit of the Australian defence minister, Kevin Andrews, to New Delhi in early-September. Addressing a public gathering, Andrews observed that the current Australian government was open to participating in a four-sided security initiative with the US, Japan and India, provided it were invited by New Delhi to do so.2 A few weeks later, Richard Verma, the US Ambassador, seemed to echo the same sentiment, when he urged New Delhi to assist the US in securing the global commons – affecting a transition from “balancing power” to “leading power”.3

To be sure, neither statement made any mention of Chinese maritime presence in the IOR. Yet, their central message was clear: strong defence ties with India were the key to the preservation of the maritime balance in the Indo-Pacific region. While the US and its allies remain prepared to share the bulk of the burden of “securing the Asian commons” - as the US ambassador seemed to suggest - India was expected to protect the sub-continental littorals from growing Chinese influence.

It is not as if New Delhi has not thought through the implications of formalising multilateral maritime exercises in the Indian Ocean. India has good reason to be wary of Chinese military presence in the IOR. Since May this year, when a Chinese Yuan class submarine visited Karachi, New Delhi has agonised over the possibility of Chinese takeover of its maritime neighbourhood. In the garb of anti-piracy operations, Indian observers believe, Chinese submarines have been performing specific stand-alone missions – a process meant to lay the groundwork for a rotating but permanent deployment in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR). More importantly, Indian analysts say the deployment pattern of PLA-N submarines reveals an intent to secure access in contested spaces, facilitating greater ‘open-seas’ presence – an operational imperative outlined in Beijing’s 2015 defence white paper. That such a tactic is at work was corroborated by India’s Andaman and Nicobar Command (ANC) recently, when it reported an alarming rise in attempts by Chinese naval ships to get close to Indian territorial waters.

Equally significant for New Delhi is China’s growing amphibious warfare capability. After Beijing announced its defence white paper in May 2015, recent PLA-N exercises have had an amphibious component, including ground assault drills by marine forces. Chinese naval contingents have conducted a series of island defence exercises this year, deploying dedicated amphibious task-forces in the Western and Far-Eastern Pacific. Even PLA-N anti-piracy deployments in the Indian Ocean have included the Type-71 class amphibious vessels, suggesting an aspiration for greater littoral presence. Indian analysts point out that China’s growing expeditionary capability can only be counteracted by the United States’ substantial amphibious assets, which is why the Exercise Malabar this year is reported to have laid emphasis on littoral operations.{The Littoral Combat Ship, USS Fort Worth, stationed at Singapore participated for the first time in Ex Malabar this year}

India’s reliance on the United States to curtail China’s Indian Ocean ambitions, however, has a significant downside. With the US Navy announcing its intention to conduct maritime patrols within the 12-mile territorial zone around China’s recently reclaimed islands in the disputed Spratly archipelago, the ground is being prepared for a wider maritime confrontation. Washington’s Pivot to Asia has already led Beijing to harden its maritime posture in the Western Pacific; the endorsement of “freedom of navigation” patrols might leave China with little option but to expand its military maritime presence across the Indo-Pacific – if only to show the US and its allies that Chinese maritime power cannot be contained within the cramped confines of the South China Sea.

As India reorients its maritime posture to cater to the new realities of Asia, there is a realisation that regional maritime stability is increasingly susceptible to growing power imbalances. India’s maritime managers remain acutely aware of the likelihood of future contingencies arising out of strategic imbalances in the Asian commons. The Malabar-2015 and AUSINDEX, therefore, need to be seen as part of a broader collective effort to preserve the balance of maritime power in the Indo-Pacific littorals.
Austin
BRF Oldie
Posts: 23387
Joined: 23 Jul 2000 11:31

Re: Joint Military Exercises News & Discussion

Post by Austin »

250 Indian And Russian Military Troops Are Taking Yoga Sessions At 'Indra-2015'
Altogether 250 Indian and Russian military troops are practicing yoga and other tactical drills during the ongoing bilateral military exercise 'Indra-2015' at Rajasthan's Mahajan firing range in Bikaner.

The participants performed 'Anulom-Vilom', 'Suryasana', 'Vajrasana' and 'Ardha Matsyendrasana' in a couple of special sessions on yoga so far, defence spokesperson Lt Col Manish Ojha told PTI today.

He said that the Army personnel of both the countries were put into exercise from the last week. They have displayed high level of professional understanding.

"The exercise, over the past week, has generated excellent professional synergy and military momentum," Ojha said.

The INDRA series, a joint exercises sessions between India and Russia, commenced in 2003. Since then, barring a few years, it has become important annual bilateral feature in the training calendar of the two armies.

Indra-2015 is aimed at training soldiers under the UN Mandate to defeat any likely current and future terrorist threats that may emerge.

Varieties of missions including joint planning, cordon and search operations, search and rescue, joint tactical drills and special arms skills are the part of the exercise that is being conducted in two phases 'Combat conditioning and tactical training' and 'validation'.

The fortnight long exercise session will culminate on November 20.
Austin
BRF Oldie
Posts: 23387
Joined: 23 Jul 2000 11:31

Re: Joint Military Exercises News & Discussion

Post by Austin »

SSridhar
Forum Moderator
Posts: 25085
Joined: 05 May 2001 11:31
Location: Chennai

Re: Joint Military Exercises News & Discussion

Post by SSridhar »

Image

An Army officer explains to a Russian contingent the working of improvised explosive devices during a joint India-Russia military exercise at the Mahajan Field Firing Range in Bikaner in Rajasthan.— Photo: PTI, Courtesy, The Hindu
member_22539
BRF Oldie
Posts: 2022
Joined: 11 Aug 2016 06:14

Re: Joint Military Exercises News & Discussion

Post by member_22539 »

^I wonder how many of those guys are actually looking at the IED :rotfl:
SSridhar
Forum Moderator
Posts: 25085
Joined: 05 May 2001 11:31
Location: Chennai

Re: Joint Military Exercises News & Discussion

Post by SSridhar »

India, Malaysia to deepen cooperation in security, defence: PM Modi - PTI
"I am pleased that we have agreed to upgrade our joint exercises and set up the SU-30 Forum," he said, adding that both sides will do more in terms of level and complexity of exercises and collaboration in training and defence equipment.
India signed a Memorandum of Understanding on defence cooperation with Malaysia in February 1993. Consequently, the Malaysia-India Defence Cooperation Committee (MIDCOM) was set-up to examine various aspects of defence cooperation. Indian and Malaysian naval ships have been calling at each other’s ports frequently ever since and enhancing inter-operability between navies.
SSridhar
Forum Moderator
Posts: 25085
Joined: 05 May 2001 11:31
Location: Chennai

Re: Joint Military Exercises News & Discussion

Post by SSridhar »

India setting pace of Indo-US defence ties: US General - PTI
Observing a rise in eagerness and willingness of US Army to engage in joint exercises with Indian Army, a top general of the US Pacific Command has said the pace of this relationship is being set by New Delhi.

"We have excellent relationship with Indian Army right now and it is starting to increase. I would say it is a hot relationship, army to army. We have to work through the paces of our own governments in terms of how much we are allowed to do. But, our eagerness and willingness to increase work with Indian Army is rising," said General Vincent K Brooks, Commanding General of US Army in Asia {US Army's Pacific Command}.

Gen Brooks told a defence writers' roundtable in Washington that the US is committed to continuing bilateral exercises like 'Yudhabhyas' as "foundation of hot relationship", and said the purchase of US military hardware by Indian armed forces opens a door to a "partner, if not a twin".

"Having said that, we are moving at a pace that our governments allow us to move. And really the pace is set by India in this case. We will move as fast or as slow as they want us to at any point of time. Because we have the resources in the region to do that now. And that is a great opportunity for us," he said in response to a question.

Gen Brooks said humanitarian assistance and disaster response is very important area of cooperation. "You certainly saw that in Nepal earthquake response," he said, adding that such a quick disaster and humanitarian response was anticipated by the armed forces of the two countries.

"Right now, we are in bilateral exercises. We do hope at some point of time to try to get to a multilateral (level) that prepares us for the next time (any disaster) that occurs," he said.

The General's remarks came a day after Manohar Parrikar became the first Indian Defence Minister to visit the headquarters of the US Pacific Command.
BharadwajV
BRFite
Posts: 116
Joined: 11 Aug 2016 06:14

Re: Joint Military Exercises News & Discussion

Post by BharadwajV »

http://www.defenseworld.net/news/14809/ ... mkIhlV97IV
Singapore has deployed six F-16 fighters for a joint military exercise with the Indian Air Force’s four Su-30MKIs held from Nov 12 to Dec 17 at Kalaikunda Air Force Station, India.

The Joint Military Training (JMT) exercise saw air assets from both countries involved in mission-oriented training, as well as and air combat 'dogfight' training. The exercise involves more than 100 Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF) personnel.

"The Joint Military Training provides an excellent opportunity for both air forces to enhance our operational competencies by learning from each other," Lieutenant Colonel Ong Teck Koon, the RSAF Detachment Commander was quoted as saying by Asia One. "It is a testament to the warm and long-standing relationship that the RSAF shares with the IAF".

The JMT between Singapore and India is conducted under the ambit of a bilateral Agreement signed between both air forces in 2007 and subsequently renewed in 2012. It is set to expire in 2017.

The two air forces also interact regularly through professional exchanges, visits, and cross-attendance of courses, Singapore’s Defense Ministry said in a statement today.
BharadwajV
BRFite
Posts: 116
Joined: 11 Aug 2016 06:14

Re: Joint Military Exercises News & Discussion

Post by BharadwajV »

http://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Vis ... 956252.ece
Ships of the Russian Federation Navy arrived in the city on Sunday to participate in ‘INDRA NAVY-2015’, the five-day bilateral exercises with Indian Navy ships starting Monday.

The 8th edition of the INDRA NAVY, being conducted in the Bay of Bengal, will be in two phases, the Harbour Phase from Monday to Wednesday at Visakhapatnam and the Sea Phase from Thursday to Saturday off Visakhapatnam.

The Harbour Phase would encompass table-top exercises and planning conferences ashore, prior to progressing to the sea.

The Sea Phase would include various facets of fleet operations.

The primary aim of this exercise is to increase interoperability between the two navies and develop common understanding of procedures for maritime security operations.

The scope of INDRA NAVY includes wide- ranging professional interactions during the Harbour Phase and a diverse canvas of operational activities at sea across a spectrum of maritime operations.

During INDRA NAVY, the Indian Navy will be represented by indigenous stealth frigate INS Sahyadri, guided missile destroyer INS Ranvijay, and fleet support ship INS Shakti. In addition, a submarine INS Sindhuvir, long-range maritime patrol aircraft P8I, short-range maritime patrol aircraft Dornier, Hawk Advanced Jet Trainer and other integral rotary wing helicopters are scheduled to participate in the bilateral exercise.

The Russian Federation Navy (RFN) will be represented by Deputy Commander of the Pacific Fleet Vice Admiral Ryabukhin Andrey and ships from the Pacific Fleet, based at Vladivostok.

RFN ships Varyag (cruiser), Bystry (destroyer), Alatau (rescue ocean going tug) and Boris Butoma (fleet tanker) reached the city on Sunday.
Image
Russians Naval Architects seem to have seen the movie Se7en before they came up with the Slava class...
Suspense thriller looks.
:mrgreen:
BharadwajV
BRFite
Posts: 116
Joined: 11 Aug 2016 06:14

Re: Joint Military Exercises News & Discussion

Post by BharadwajV »

http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/new ... s?from=mdr- Manu Pubby
NEW DELHI: India is sending its frontline Su 30 MKI air superiority fighters as well as the Jaguar deep penetration attack aircraft for the most complex air exercise with US forces in Alaska next year.

The prestigious 'Red Flag' exercise will also see NATO forces taking part in war games that will have a focus on special operations.


Sources have told ET that the Indian air force will be sending a 12 aircraft team to the US in April that would include four each of the Su 30 and Jaguar fighters, besides two C 17 tactical lift aircraft and IL 78 midair refulers each. "The final plan is in place and 176 personnel from the Indian side will take part. A special focus will be on carrying out air operations in an environment where troops are also functioning closely on the ground," an official involved in the exercise told ET.

The Red Flag would be the most complex aerial war game between the two nations and would include Aerial Early Warning aircraft from NATO forces as well as a small delegation from Denmark. India has once again refrained from taking its Aerial early warning aircraft for the overseas exercise.

The US side is expected to take part with its cutting edge fighters, including the F 22 Raptor. Red Flag is a showcase aerial exercise that features the best pilots and aircraft from around the world. India was to take part in a 2013 edition of the war game which was abruptly called off after a series of budget cuts by Washington to the US military training program.

The last time the Indian Air Force took part in an exercise of this scale was at the Nellis Red Flag in 2008 where the Su 30 MKI fighters featured, crossing swords with advanced western fighters for the first time. Sending aircraft for such an exercise has to be carefully planned, particularly due to the high expenses involved.

By some estimates, the budget for the exercise could well exceed Rs 100 crore.
sum
BRF Oldie
Posts: 10195
Joined: 08 May 2007 17:04
Location: (IT-vity && DRDO) nagar

Re: Joint Military Exercises News & Discussion

Post by sum »

Russians Naval Architects seem to have seen the movie Se7en before they came up with the Slava class...
Suspense thriller looks.
Thats how a warship would like like if some BRF-ite or Singha-saar were asked to draw their dream boat! :mrgreen: :mrgreen:
BharadwajV
BRFite
Posts: 116
Joined: 11 Aug 2016 06:14

Re: Joint Military Exercises News & Discussion

Post by BharadwajV »

sum wrote: Thats how a warship would like like if some BRF-ite or Singha-saar were asked to draw their dream boat! :mrgreen: :mrgreen:
Singha Saar would probably go in for something that looks like what the Ju87 sounded like to the Allies...Death.
And the Russians call it the Kirov. 8)
Image
Cybaru
BRF Oldie
Posts: 2904
Joined: 12 Jun 2000 11:31
Contact:

Re: Joint Military Exercises News & Discussion

Post by Cybaru »

SSridhar wrote:Image

An Army officer explains to a Russian contingent the working of improvised explosive devices during a joint India-Russia military exercise at the Mahajan Field Firing Range in Bikaner in Rajasthan.— Photo: PTI, Courtesy, The Hindu
:shock: Whooooa, I say chaps, (raises hand) excuse me, can you repeat all that all over again!
SSridhar
Forum Moderator
Posts: 25085
Joined: 05 May 2001 11:31
Location: Chennai

Re: Joint Military Exercises News & Discussion

Post by SSridhar »

Shift in strategy: India & US to talk on giving access to each other's military bases - Pranab Dhal Samanta, Economic Times
India has agreed to reopen talks with the US on a pact to allow each other access to their military bases and ports, signalling a strategic shift from the UPA position to not take any such step for fear of conveying an impression of a military alliance.

The proposed pact, which is called the Logistics Support Agreement (LSA), allows both sides to make changes to each other's facilities in a way that it allows for easier conduct of military exercises besides expanding their scope and ambition. It's also aimed at raising trust levels for the US to share more high-end technology with India, which is critical to spur military co-production between both countries.

Under the LSA, for instance, Indian and US bases would have to be equipped appropriately to play host to each other's platforms.

In earlier conversations, the US had agreed to keep this restricted to military exercises and for the conduct of any other 'mutually agreed' action just to address Indian concerns that it's not misconstrued as a "blank cheque" to the US to use Indian bases for any operations it undertakes across the globe. The US is now expected to present a fresh draft soon. The CISMOA is an agreement that allows both militaries to come on a common communication platform.

While this makes it easier for both sides to carry out exercises and operations together, the Indian side has been concerned about the access this may give US to Indian systems. But, sources said, this works both ways as India will also get access and then security protocols can be developed.
JE Menon
Forum Moderator
Posts: 7127
Joined: 01 Jan 1970 05:30

Re: Joint Military Exercises News & Discussion

Post by JE Menon »

^^very very significant development when it materializes. Probably around 2017. Remember guys, we would have been nowhere close to this level of cooperation without POK2. All hail ABV.
Paul
BRF Oldie
Posts: 3800
Joined: 25 Jun 1999 11:31

Re: Joint Military Exercises News & Discussion

Post by Paul »

There was an article in Telegraph relating only Navy readiness to go ahead with LSA as they can refuel from US tankers.

What benefit it will bring to Army and Air Force is in question.
JE Menon
Forum Moderator
Posts: 7127
Joined: 01 Jan 1970 05:30

Re: Joint Military Exercises News & Discussion

Post by JE Menon »

^^The Middle East, African and Asian littoral is peppered with American bases. Don't forget Okinawa either. In 15 years, the global situation will be such that we could be using Camp Lemonniere in Djibouti, Manda Bay in Kenya, etc. etc. Of course, nothing stops us from signing similar agreements with others. In short, the string of pearls may be supplanted by an oyster-bed. I would also not be surprised if some of our jets start practice flying off US carriers in the not too distant future (if they haven't already started doing so).
NRao
BRF Oldie
Posts: 19224
Joined: 01 Jan 1970 05:30
Location: Illini Nation

Re: Joint Military Exercises News & Discussion

Post by NRao »

What benefit it will bring to Army and Air Force is in question.
Not much, if any, to the armies.

IAF *may* benefit from USN, because both use similar type for refueling.

It is the IN that will benefit the most. Navies (and Marines) are true global units - omnipresent.

The LSA is just a formality IMHO. US ships have been coming to India for a variety of reasons, this will (if it happens) will formalize it and perhaps more ships will visit India.

Also, not sure, but MP I think has agreed to only the LSA and not any of the others.
SSridhar
Forum Moderator
Posts: 25085
Joined: 05 May 2001 11:31
Location: Chennai

Re: Joint Military Exercises News & Discussion

Post by SSridhar »

Link
The 10th edition of the India, Oman joint naval exercise ‘Naseem Al-Bahr’ will begin today in the Arabian Sea. The naval exercise will focus on greater interoperability to counter maritime security challenges.
Post Reply