23 September,2026 08:53 AM IST | New Delhi | mid-day online correspondent
Indian Army personnel conduct joint firing drills during ‘Exercise Yudh Abhyas 2026’ in Bikaner, Rajasthan. (PIC/ PTI)
The Mahajan Field Firing Range came alive with the thunder of artillery as Indian and US Army troops trained together on a range of weapon systems during Exercise Yudh Abhyas 2026, according to a release.
According to ANI, the joint training featured the M777 Ultra-Light Howitzer, Dhanush artillery gun and Pinaka multi-barrel rocket launcher. L70 air-defence guns and M-LIDS systems were also deployed during the practice sessions.
A key focus of the training was developing interoperability in the planning, coordination and execution of fire support.
Observation Post parties from both armies trained together in landmark indication, target identification, engagement procedures, transmission of fire orders and correction of fire. The drills gave troops hands-on experience with each other's gunnery techniques and communication procedures, the release said, ANI reported.
From identifying targets at the Observation Post to engaging them using different firing platforms, the integrated drills enabled the two contingents to practise the complete chain of battlefield fire support.
The training focused on improving precision, responsiveness and coordination while developing a common understanding of procedures required for combined operations.
The joint firing and Observation Post training at the Mahajan Field Firing Range reflects the practical focus of Exercise Yudh Abhyas, with soldiers from both armies exchanging operational experience and refining interoperability.
The drills are aimed at strengthening the ability of the two forces to operate together in complex battlefield conditions, according to the release.
Contingents of the Indian Army and the US Army are undergoing intensive joint training across multiple platforms and operational scenarios as part of Exercise Yudh Abhyas 2026.
The 22nd edition of the India-US joint military exercise began on September 15. The ongoing drills focus on honing combat tactics, enhancing joint operational readiness and refining tactical procedures between the two forces in diverse environments, ANI reported.
The annual exercise also provides troops from both countries an opportunity to train together across different platforms, refine tactics, techniques and procedures (TTPs), and exchange operational best practices.
(With ANI inputs)
