India, Vietnam Launch Joint Military Exercise VINBAX 2024
Ambala, Haryana: India and Vietnam today commenced their fifth joint military exercise, VINBAX 2024, at Ambala, Haryana. The 20-day exercise, scheduled from November 4 to 23, 2024, aims to enhance joint military capabilities in peacekeeping operations under the United Nations Charter.
The exercise is a significant milestone in strengthening bilateral relations between India and Vietnam. It builds upon last year’s successful bilateral exercise in Vietnam and marks a significant increase in scope with bi-service level participation.
The Indian Army contingent consists of 47 personnel from the Corps of Engineers, along with representatives from other arms and services. The Vietnamese contingent has similar strength, with troops from the Vietnam People’s Army.
VINBAX 2024 focuses on deploying and employing engineer companies and medical teams in peacekeeping operations. This includes rehearsals of combat engineering and medical tasks, construction of roads, culverts, helipads, ammunition shelters, and observation posts.
A 48-hour Validation Exercise will assess standards achieved by both contingents while executing technical military operations under similar scenarios in UN missions. The joint exercise also provides an opportunity for troops to learn about each other’s social and cultural heritage.
This growing defense cooperation between India and Vietnam reflects their strengthening strategic ties. VINBAX was instituted in 2018, with annual exercises alternating between India and Vietnam.
