An Indian Army contingent has departed for Fort Wainwright, Alaska, USA, to participate in the 21st edition of the India–USA Joint Military Exercise Yudh Abhyas 2025, amid deteriorating bond between the two nations over trade tariffs imposed by the President Donald Trump-led administration on New Delhi.

The exercise will be held from September 1 to September 14, read a statement issued by the India Ministery of Defence.

The Indian contingent, comprising personnel from a battalion of the Madras Regiment, will train alongside soldiers from the 1st Battalion, 5th Infantry Regiment “Bobcats” of the Arctic Wolves Brigade Combat Team, 11th Airborne Division of the USA.

Over two weeks, troops will rehearse a spectrum of tactical drills including 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.

In addition, subject-matter experts from both armies will 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 manoeuvres, ranging from live-fire exercises to high-altitude warfare scenarios, with a focus on improving capabilities for United Nations peacekeeping operations and strengthening preparedness for multi-domain challenges," the statement said.

Trump Tariffs

Trump announced to double tariffs on Indian imports — raising duties from 25% to 50% — striking sectors like textiles, gems and jewellery, and auto components, over India's Russian oil purchase.

Despite facing the prospect of heavy economic costs, India has maintained that it will not compromise on the interests of farmers and small-scale industries.

India had condemned the move and called it "unfair, unjustified and unreasonable".

The tariffs came into effect on August 27.