Exercise Vinbax from Vajirao & Reddy Institute

EXERCISE VINBAX

• The 5th edition of the India-Vietnam Joint Military Exercise titled VINBAX 2024 began at Ambala, Haryana.
• The exercise, which will run from November 4 to 23, 2024, is being conducted in Ambala and Chandimandir.
• This joint military training is a continuation of the successful exercises held between the two nations, with the last one conducted in Vietnam in 2023.
• VINBAX 2024 marks a significant milestone in the defence cooperation between India and Vietnam and reflects the growing strength of their bilateral military ties.

• Expanded Scope and Participation:
  • This year’s exercise is notable for its expanded scope, which now includes Bi-Service participation for the first time.
  • Personnel from both the Indian Army and the Indian Air Force, along with their Vietnamese counterparts, will be taking part.
  • The Indian contingent consists of 47 personnel from the Indian Army, including a Regiment of the Corps of Engineers and personnel from other arms and services.
  • The Vietnamese contingent, also comprising 47 personnel, will be represented by troops from the Vietnam People's Army.
• Focus on UN Peacekeeping Operations:
  • The primary goal of VINBAX 2024 is to enhance the joint military capabilities of both countries, particularly in the areas of engineering tasks and medical support during United Nations Peacekeeping Operations.
  • The exercise will simulate tasks outlined under Chapter VII of the United Nations Charter, which deals with peacekeeping operations in conflict zones.
• Field Training and Disaster Relief:
  • This year’s exercise will be conducted as a field training exercise, featuring a 48-hour validation exercise.
  • This will include demonstrations of Humanitarian Assistance & Disaster Relief (HADR) operations, showcasing the combined efforts of both countries to provide assistance in the wake of natural disasters or humanitarian crises.
  • Both the Indian and Vietnamese contingents will display their technical military skills while executing military operations similar to those conducted in UN missions.
• Strengthening Mutual Confidence and Interoperability:
  • The exercise aims to strengthen mutual confidence and improve the interoperability between the Indian Army and the Vietnam People’s Army.
  • A major component of the exercise is the sharing of best practices between the two forces, particularly in the areas of engineering and medical support during peacekeeping operations.
• Cultural Exchange:
  • In addition to military training, the exercise will also provide both contingents with the opportunity to learn about each other’s social and cultural heritage. This is part of a broader effort to build closer ties and mutual understanding between India and Vietnam.

• Strengthening Bilateral Military Cooperation:
  • The VINBAX exercise series has become an important tool in enhancing defence cooperation between India and Vietnam.
  • With both countries sharing common interests in regional security, this exercise provides a platform to discuss and improve their military strategies, particularly concerning peacekeeping operations under the United Nations.
• Strategic Partnership:
  • India and Vietnam have been steadily deepening their strategic partnership, with a strong focus on defence ties, security cooperation, and joint military training.
  • This joint exercise also reflects India’s commitment to supporting peacekeeping operations worldwide and furthering its role in global security initiatives.
• Regional Security and Stability:
  • Given the evolving security situation in the Indo-Pacific region, this exercise also contributes to ensuring peace and stability in the region.
  • India and Vietnam share mutual concerns over regional security, particularly in relation to issues such as freedom of navigation and maritime security in the South China Sea.