RAJASTHAN, India – U.S. and Indian Army Soldiers gathered at the Chidasar Grand Stand at Mahajan Field Firing Range, Rajasthan, India, Sept. 15, 2026, for an opening ceremony marking the beginning of bilateral training at MFFR during exercise Yudh Abhas 2026.
The ceremony brought together formations from both armies as leaders welcomed participating forces and highlighted the importance of training together throughout the exercise.
Yudh Abhyas is an annual bilateral exercise designed to strengthen the relationship between the U.S. and Indian armies while improving their ability to operate together in complex training environments.
“First, our people are our greatest strength. The heart of Yudh Abhyas is the individual people to people relationship forged between our Soldiers,” said Maj. Francis Buckley, MFFR officer in charge. “Built on mutual trust and respect, these bonds are our ultimate advantage. We stand here as equal partners learning from each other, pushing one another and strengthening our shared values.”
At MFFR, U.S. And Indian Army personnel will train alongside one another across a range of tactical and live-fire events. Training includes the integration of weapons systems, air defense capabilities, medical support and other battlefield functions, providing Soldiers opportunities to exchange techniques and build familiarity with each other’s equipment and procedures.
The opening ceremony established a shared starting point for the training ahead, transitioning Soldiers from planning and preparation into combined execution on the range.
Throughout the exercise, U.S. and Indian Army Soldiers will work side by side to refine procedures, exchange professional knowledge and increase their ability to communicate and operate as a combined force.
Yudh Abhyas 2026 demonstrates the continued commitment of the United States and India to strengthening their defense partnership through realistic training and sustained military-to-military cooperation.
-30-
| Date Taken: | 09.14.2026 |
| Date Posted: | 09.16.2026 04:03 |
| Story ID: | 574832 |
| Location: | RAJASTHAN, IN |
| Web Views: | 25 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
This work, U.S., Indian armies open Yudh Abhyas 2026 training at Mahajan Field Firing Range, by SSG Kalina Hyche, identified by DVIDS, must comply with the restrictions shown on https://www.dvidshub.net/about/copyright.