Why in news?
The eighth edition of the bilateral military exercise “AJEYA WARRIOR” between India and the United Kingdom began on 17 November 2025 at the Mahajan Field Firing Ranges in Rajasthan. The two‑week exercise aims to enhance interoperability and share best practices in counter‑terrorism operations in semi‑urban environments.
Background
“AJEYA WARRIOR” has been held every two years since 2011, alternating between India and the UK. It is conducted under a United Nations mandate, focusing on counter‑insurgency and peacekeeping scenarios. The drill complements other India–UK defence cooperation initiatives such as joint maritime patrols and high‑level dialogues.
Key features of the 2025 edition
- Balanced participation: Around 240 personnel are taking part, split evenly between the Indian Army and the British Army. India is represented by troops from the Sikh Regiment, known for their operational experience.
- Simulated missions: The exercise involves joint mission planning at brigade level, simulation‑based rehearsals and company‑level field drills. Scenarios include neutralising terrorist hideouts, rescuing hostages and managing humanitarian crises in semi‑urban terrain.
- Sharing best practices: Soldiers practise integrated tactical drills, coordinated reconnaissance and use of drones and ground sensors. Experts from both sides exchange lessons on urban warfare, rules of engagement and use of non‑lethal options.
- Building camaraderie: Cultural exchanges and sports competitions accompany the drills, strengthening trust and understanding between the two armies.
Significance
- Operational readiness: By practising realistic scenarios, troops improve their ability to respond quickly to terrorist threats and peacekeeping missions under UN mandates.
- Strategic partnership: The exercise underscores deepening India–UK defence ties and complements broader cooperation in areas such as maritime security, cyber defence and defence industrial collaboration.
- Global peacekeeping: Joint training enhances the ability of both armies to participate in multinational peace operations, promoting regional stability and global security.
Conclusion
Exercise AJEYA WARRIOR 25 builds on a decade of growing military cooperation between India and the UK. Through shared training and mutual learning, the two nations aim to strengthen their capabilities to confront modern security challenges in a rules‑based international order.
Source: Press Information Bureau