India conducts various joint military exercises to enhance interoperability and strengthen diplomatic ties. These are generally categorised into Army, Navy, and Air Force exercises.
1. Indian Army Exercises
Exercise Name
Partner Country
Yudh Abhyas
USA
Vajra Prahar
USA (Special Forces)
Hand-in-Hand
China
Shakti
France
Surya Kiran
Nepal
Sampriti
Bangladesh
Mitra Shakti
Sri Lanka
Maitree
Thailand
Nomadic Elephant
Mongolia
Garuda Shakti
Indonesia
Kazind
Kazakhstan
Khanjar
Kyrgyzstan
Dharma Guardian
Japan
Ekuverin
Maldives
Lamitiye
Seychelles
Austra Hind
Australia
Vinbax
Vietnam
Al Nagah
Oman
Harimau Shakti
Malaysia
2. Indian Navy Exercises
Exercise Name
Partner Country
Varuna
France
Indra Navy
Russia
Konkan
United Kingdom
Simbex
Singapore
Slinex
Sri Lanka
Naseem-Al-Bahr
Oman
Jimex
Japan
Ausindex
Australia
Samudra Shakti
Indonesia
Bongosagar
Bangladesh
3. Indian Air Force Exercises
Exercise Name
Partner Country
Garuda
France
Indradhanush
United Kingdom
AviaIndra
Russia
Cope India
USA
Red Flag
USA
Eastern Bridge
Oman
Siam Bharat
Thailand
Desert Eagle
UAE
Shinyuu Maitri
Japan
4. Major Multilateral Exercises
Malabar: India, USA, Japan, and Australia (Quad).
Milan: A biennial exercise involving over 40 navies, hosted by India.
RIMPAC: The world’s largest international maritime exercise (led by the USA).
Cobra Gold: Asia-Pacific nations (India participates as an observer/partner).
Pitch Black: Large-scale air combat exercise hosted by Australia.
Would you like more details on any specific exercise or its latest 2025 edition?
