Enhancing Bilateral Military Cooperation Between India-Vietnam
Ambala (Haryana) [India]: The 5th Edition of the Vietnam-India Bilateral Army Exercise, “VINBAX 2024,” officially began on November 4 and will continue until November 23, taking place at Ambala and Chandimandir. This joint exercise aims to strengthen the military cooperation and capabilities of both nations, focusing on engineer and medical team deployments for United Nations peacekeeping operations under Chapter VII of the United Nations Charter.
Goals and Objectives of VINBAX 2024
The primary aim of VINBAX 2024 is to enhance joint military readiness, specifically in the deployment and operational capabilities of engineering and medical units as part of a United Nations peacekeeping contingent. The exercise builds on the success of the previous edition held in Vietnam in 2023 and represents a significant step forward in India-Vietnam defense collaboration.
Expanded Scope and Bi-Service Participation
For the first time, VINBAX 2024 features bi-service participation, involving both Army and Air Force personnel from India and Vietnam. This expanded scope underscores the growing defense ties and comprehensive strategic partnership between the two nations.
- Indian Contingent: The Indian Army’s representation consists of 47 personnel from a Corps of Engineers Regiment, supported by members from other arms and services.
- Vietnamese Contingent: The Vietnam People’s Army is also represented by a contingent of 47 personnel, ensuring equal participation and collaboration.
Key Highlights and Training Modules
- Indian Hockey Legend Rani Rampal Retires: A Historic Journey and a Legacy to Inspire
- Important Articles
- Hindalco Industries Joins International Copper Association to Promote Sustainability and Innovation
- List Of Ministers – 2022 | Modi Government Ministers List
- BEML Achieves Prestigious “Self-Certification” Status in Defence Manufacturing
The field training exercise will feature activities designed to promote mutual confidence, interoperability, and the exchange of best practices between the Indian and Vietnamese armed forces. A key component of VINBAX 2024 is a 48-hour Validation Exercise, which includes:
- COP29 Climate Summit: The U.S. Role Under Trump and the Future of Global Climate Action
- National Parks In India
- Vitamins Important questions
- Assam’s Conservation Scientist Bibhab Talukdar Honored with IUCN’s Harry Messel Award for Leadership in Conservation
- Global Freight Summit 2024: Key Highlights and Themes
- Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR): A demonstration and equipment display will be conducted to test the operational standards achieved by both contingents under United Nations mission scenarios.
- Technical Military Operations: Both sides will work together on engineering and medical tasks, simulating real-world situations faced in peacekeeping missions.
Cultural Exchange and Strengthening Relations
Beyond military training, VINBAX 2024 provides an opportunity for personnel from both nations to learn about each other’s social and cultural heritage, fostering deeper understanding and camaraderie. This cultural exchange further solidifies the growing strategic partnership between India and Vietnam.
India-Vietnam Strategic Partnership
The exercise takes place in the context of enhanced strategic ties between India and Vietnam. During a recent state visit to India by Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh from July 30 to August 1, 2024, both leaders—Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Pham Minh Chinh—committed to advancing the Vietnam-India Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. They discussed measures to boost bilateral trade, which currently stands at approximately USD 15 billion, and agreed to strengthen cooperation in trade, investment, and technological sectors.
