India Joins Russia’s Zapad 2025 Military Exercise
India has deployed a 65-member tri-service contingent to participate in Exercise Zapad 2025, a multilateral military drill organized by Russia. The contingent departed for the Mulino Training Ground in Nizhniy, Russia on September 9, 2025, ahead of the exercise scheduled from September 10 to 16.
Force Composition
The force includes 57 personnel from the Indian Army, a unit from the Kumaon Regiment, seven from the Indian Air Force, and one from the Indian Navy.
Exercise Objectives
Designed to enhance defence cooperation and interoperability, the exercise focuses on conventional warfare and counter-terrorism operations. Participating forces will engage in company-level training in open terrain, including joint planning, tactical drills, and special arms skills, while incorporating emerging technologies in a multinational combat environment.
Strategic Significance
India’s participation underscores its longstanding defence ties with Russia. The engagement is seen as a strategic move to boost military diplomacy, strengthen bilateral trust, and refine joint operational capabilities.
