 "21st Yudh Abhyas: Indian Army joins US troops for military exercise in Alaska amid Trump tariff tensions. Image: X")
An Indian Army contingent on Monday (Sept 1) arrived at Fort Wainwright in Alaska for the 21st edition of Exercise Yudh Abhyas, the annual India–US joint military drill running from September 1 to 14.
The exercise comes at a time when ties between New Delhi and Washington have been strained after US President Donald Trump announced a 25 per cent reciprocal tariff and penalty on India over its oil trade with Russia.
Yet, far from recent tariff tensions, India and the US kicked off one of their largest-ever Army exercises in Alaska. Plans are also underway for the Malabar naval drills with Quad partners near Guam in November.
Despite strains in trade relations, defence officials stressed that the India–US strategic partnership, built over the last two decades with defence cooperation at its core, remains strong.
The Ministry of External Affairs confirmed the arrival on X, “An Indian Army contingent has reached Fort Wainwright, Alaska for the 21st edition of Yudh Abhyas 2025 (01–14 Sept). Alongside US 11th Airborne Division troops, they’ll train in heliborne ops, mountain warfare, UAS/counter-UAS & joint tactical drills—boosting UN PKO & multi-domain readiness.”
A photograph shared by the ministry showed Indian soldiers in front of a C-17 Globemaster III aircraft.
According to the Defence Ministry, the Indian contingent is drawn from the Madras Regiment, while the US side includes troops from the 1st Battalion, 5th Infantry Regiment “Bobcats,” part of the Arctic Wolves Brigade Combat Team under the 11th Airborne Division.
Impact Shorts
More ShortsOver the two weeks, soldiers will train in heliborne operations, mountain warfare, casualty evacuation and combat medical aid. The drills will also integrate artillery, aviation, electronic warfare, and unmanned aerial systems (UAS).
The exercise will conclude with joint tactical manoeuvres, including live-fire drills and high-altitude warfare scenarios, aimed at enhancing UN peacekeeping capabilities and multi-domain readiness. Experts from both sides will also hold sessions on UAS and counter-UAS, information warfare, communications, and logistics.