International Military Exercises: An Indian Perspective

International military exercises are an extension of military training for partner countries and a significant military diplomacy tool. Since 2012, the Indian armed forces have engaged 23 countries in 93 international military exercises. This article analyses the data regarding these exercises in terms of the participating countries and services. Outlining the benefits and possible pitfalls of participation in international military exercises, it suggests a holistic policy review on the subject. The article also lists out factors that need to be considered while planning an international military exercise in terms of objectives, participants, frequency and scale.