The 19th edition of “EXERCISE YUDH ABHYAS” is scheduled from September 25th to October 8th, 2023, at Fort Wainwright, Alaska, USA. This annual event is a joint military exercise involving the Indian Army and the United States Army. The exercise will see 350 Indian Army personnel participating, led by the affiliated battalion of the MARATHA Light Infantry Regiment. The focus of the exercise is to enhance interoperability for UN peacekeeping operations, with a theme centered around the use of Integrated Battle Groups in challenging mountain and extreme climatic conditions. Training will cover various tactical drills, combat skills, and strategies.
Facts/Terms for UPSC Prelims
- Integrated Battle Groups (IBG): Integrated Battle Groups are a vital component of the Indian Army’s restructuring efforts, comprising combined arms forces tailored for swift and effective response to various military contingencies. They integrate infantry, artillery, armor, and other elements.
- Chapter VII of the United Nations Mandate: Chapter VII of the UN Charter authorizes the use of force to maintain or restore international peace and security. It includes peace enforcement missions where military actions can be taken to address threats to peace.
- Heliborne/Airborne Elements: Heliborne and airborne elements refer to troops and equipment transported by helicopters or aircraft. They are crucial for rapid deployment and mobility in military operations.
- Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs): IEDs are homemade explosive devices used by insurgent groups and terrorists. They are often hidden and can cause devastating casualties, making IED warfare a critical area of military training.
- Multilateral Exercises: Exercises like “MALABAR” and “Red Flag” involve the participation of multiple nations’ armed forces. These exercises promote interoperability, cooperation, and mutual understanding among different countries’ military units.
