Amid Trade Tensions, Alaska War Games Strengthen India-US Defence Ties

Indian and US troops are conducting the 21st edition of Exercise Yudh Abhyas at Fort Wainwright, Alaska (Sept 1–14), despite trade and tariff tensions. Indian soldiers from the Madras Regiment are training with US forces from the 11th Airborne Division on heliborne ops, surveillance, mountain warfare, and counter-UAS tactics. The drills include live-fire and UN peacekeeping scenarios. Defence ties remain strong, supported by recent agreements like LEMOA, COMCASA, and BECA. Major procurements include Seahawk helicopters, M777 howitzers, and Sig Sauer rifles. Ongoing projects include GE jet engine production in India and MQ-9B drone procurement, reinforcing strategic cooperation.