Despite escalating tariff tensions between the United States and India, the two nations have commenced their largest-ever joint military exercise in Alaska. This exercise, named "Yudh Abhyas 2025," signifies the continued strategic relationship and military cooperation between the two countries, even as trade relations face strain.
The "Yudh Abhyas" series, which began in 2004 under the U.S. Army Pacific partnership program, marks its 21st edition this year. Scheduled from September 1st to 14th at Fort Wainwright, Alaska, the exercise involves a battalion from the Madras Regiment representing the Indian Army, training alongside soldiers from the 1st Battalion, 5th Infantry Regiment "Bobcats" of the Arctic Wolves Brigade Combat Team, 11th Airborne Division of the U.S. Army.
The two-week exercise will focus on a wide array of tactical drills. These include heliborne operations, employment of surveillance resources and unmanned aerial systems, rock craft, mountain warfare, casualty evacuation, combat medical aid, and the integrated use of artillery, aviation, and electronic warfare systems. Subject matter experts from both armies will also conduct working groups on critical domains such as UAS and counter-UAS operations, information warfare, communications, and logistics. The exercise will culminate in jointly planned and executed tactical maneuvers, including live-fire exercises and high-altitude warfare scenarios, with a focus on enhancing capabilities for United Nations peacekeeping operations and strengthening preparedness for multi-domain challenges.
This military collaboration unfolds amidst a backdrop of escalating trade tensions between the U.S. and India. Recent actions by the U.S. have imposed steep tariffs on Indian goods, a move perceived as penalizing India for its continued oil and weapon purchases from Russia. The tariffs, which now total 50%, include an initial 25% duty followed by an additional 25%. These levies impact over 55% of India's $87.4 billion in annual U.S. exports, potentially affecting sectors like textiles and jewelry, while the pharmaceutical sector has received an exemption. Some economists project that these duties could lead to significant job losses in India and a reduction in U.S.-bound exports.
The tariff hikes followed the collapse of bilateral trade talks, leading to the postponement of a planned U.S. trade delegation visit to India. These trade disputes arose, in part, from India's continued purchase of Russian oil despite pressure from the U.S. to reduce its dependence on Russian energy. India has maintained that its energy security is a priority and that it will continue to purchase energy from countries that benefit it.
Despite the economic friction, the continuation of "Yudh Abhyas 2025" highlights the importance both nations place on their strategic partnership and military interoperability. The exercise underscores a commitment to maintaining a strong defense relationship, even as trade and tariff disagreements persist. Some U.S. officials express optimism that despite current challenges, bilateral cooperation will eventually resume.
