India, Russia join hands for multinational military drill from September 10-16
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India will take part in a multilateral military exercise in Russia from September 10 to 16, aimed at improving cooperation and interoperability among participating forces.
The exercise will focus on conventional warfare and counter-terrorism operations, officials said.
A group of 65 Indian armed forces personnel left for Russia on Tuesday to join ‘Exercise Zapad’ at the Mulino Training Ground in Nizhniy. The contingent includes 57 from the Indian Army, seven from the Air Force, and one from the Navy.
The Indian Army unit is led by a battalion from the Kumaon Regiment, supported by troops from other arms and services.
The Defence Ministry stated that the exercise is aimed at “enhancing military cooperation, improving interoperability, and providing a platform for participating armies to exchange tactics, techniques and procedures in the domains of conventional warfare and counter-terrorism operations.”
The drill will focus on joint company-level operations in open terrain. Missions will include joint planning, tactical drills, and special weapons training.
Officials noted that the exercise will be a valuable opportunity to refine joint operational skills, integrate new technologies, and operate in a multinational combat environment.
Participation in ‘Exercise Zapad 2025’ is expected to “further strengthen defence cooperation and foster camaraderie between India and Russia, thereby reinforcing the spirit of collaboration and mutual trust,” the ministry added.
