SOURCE: AFI
The India-U.S. bilateral Army exercise Yudh Abhyas has commenced at the Mahajan field firing ranges in Rajasthan on September 9, 2024. This year’s exercise is set to feature a wide range of military activities, including live-fire drills and training exercises.
The U.S. Army is participating in the exercise with a contingent that includes Stryker infantry vehicles and the M142 HIMARS (High Mobility Artillery Rocket System). The deployment of HIMARS in India marks a significant development, as the U.S. is keen to sell this advanced weapon system to the Indian Army.
The Lockheed Martin-manufactured HIMARS is a truck-mounted, mobile rocket launcher capable of carrying six missiles simultaneously. It has gained popularity worldwide, with numerous countries in Europe placing orders. Recently, the U.S. has also announced plans to provide HIMARS to Indo-Pacific nations, including Taiwan.
The inclusion of HIMARS in the Yudh Abhyas exercise provides India with an opportunity to familiarize itself with this advanced weapon system and assess its potential for integration into its own military capabilities. The exercise also serves as a platform for enhancing interoperability between the Indian and U.S. armies and strengthening bilateral military cooperation.