India, US carry out live firing operations during joint military exercise in Rajasthan

The Indo-US joint military exercise Yudh Abhyas 2024 is in full swing at the Foreign Training Node in the Mahajan Field Firing Ranges, Rajasthan. The exercise commenced on September 9 and will continue till September 21.
An important element of Yudh Abhyas 2024 has been the live fire exercises, which demonstrated the integrated firepower capabilities of both nations.
The US M-777 Ultra-Light Howitzers, paired with Indian Artillery units, conducted live firing drills, showcasing precision and coordination in high-intensity environments.
Advanced weapon systems, including PINAKA MBRL, were deployed alongside coordinated air support missions involving the Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH) and Apache AH-64 helicopters.
In the first few days, the command post exercise sessions provided an in-depth focus on peacekeeping operations, specifically addressing civil-military coordination and humanitarian activities.
The discussions centred on how both armies could collaborate to meet the United Nations peacekeeping mandates.
Counter-terrorism, a key priority for both nations, has been at the forefront of this year’s exercise.
The training modules focused on operations in urban environments and counter-insurgency strategies, with lessons from the contingents’ respective experiences in conflict zones.
Fire and movement drills, close-quarter battle training, and counter-drone drills were practised extensively, providing troops with hands-on experience in managing threats.
Throughout the exercise, both contingents engaged in a dynamic Field Training Exercise.
These joint drills emphasise the operational synergy between the Indian and US forces, ensuring both are prepared to respond swiftly to threats in a wide range of environments.
In addition to tactical drills, Yudh Abhyas 2024 has provided a platform for cultural exchange, which plays an integral role in strengthening the ties between the two forces.
The exercise will continue with further tactical drills, including fire and movement exercises, dummy medical casualty evacuations, and additional air operations, all designed to solidify the collaborative defence capabilities of both nations.
The exercise will conclude with a grand live-fire demonstration, offering an opportunity to display the full spectrum of joint operational readiness achieved over the course of the exercise.