The latest edition of the Vietnam-India Bilateral Army Exercise, known as “Ex VINBAX 2022”, has been initiated in India. This represents the third occasion on which this exercise has taken place. Highlighting the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership that exists between Vietnam and India, defense cooperation is identified as a critical component of this relationship. Vietnam enjoys status as an important partner in India’s Act East policy and also contributes to the Indo-Pacific vision.
Understanding Ex VINBAX
The Ex VINBAX is essentially a field training exercise which carries an increased scope compared to previous editions of the bilateral exercise. It goes beyond the simple concept of military training, encompassing a wide array of activities designed to promote cooperation and mutual understanding between two countries.
The Focus on Humanitarian Assistance & Disaster Relief (HADR)
One of the pivotal components of Ex VINBAX is the Humanitarian Assistance & Disaster Relief (HADR) Demonstration. This platform provides an opportunity for India to demonstrate its capacity to undertake rescue and relief operations during both natural and manmade disasters. What is particularly notable is that these operations are carried out using indigenously developed solutions, highlighting India’s self-sufficiency in addressing disaster management tasks.
The Purpose of Ex VINBAX
The aim behind conducting the Ex VINBAX exercise goes beyond military prowess. The main objectives are to bolster mutual confidence and interoperability and enable sharing of best practices between the Indian Army and the Vietnam People’s Army. In addition, this venture provides an excellent opportunity for troops of both contingents to learn about each other’s social and cultural heritage, thereby fostering mutual respect and understanding.
The Theme: Peacekeeping Operations
The central theme around this year’s exercise revolves around the employment and deployment of an Engineer Company as well as a Medical Team. These units are envisaged to form part of United Nations Contingent aimed at Peacekeeping Operations. This theme underscores the shared commitment of both nations towards global peace and stability.
Ex VINBAX: A Source of Learning and Cooperation
Ex VINBAX serves as a platform for mutual learning and cooperation between the Indian Army and the Vietnam People’s Army. It’s an exercise that strengthens their strategic partnership, enabling them to learn from each other’s experience and expertise. Not only military tactics, but also the cultural and social aspects of each country are shared, contributing to a broader understanding and respect between the two contingents.
The Role of Ex VINBAX in India’s Act East Policy
Ex VINBAX plays a key role in enhancing India’s Act East policy by strengthening its relations with Southeast Asian countries like Vietnam. This bilateral exercise is not simply a military activity but a reflection of the cooperation on multiple fronts between India and Vietnam. It’s a testament to India’s commitment to act as a stabilizing force in the Indo-Pacific region and playing a significant role in maintaining peace and stability in the region.