India and Singapore, two vibrant democracies with a shared vision for regional peace and security, are all set to elevate their defence partnership through Exercise Bold Kurukshetra 2025, scheduled to commence at Jodhpur, Rajasthan. This joint military exercise is a key bilateral initiative aimed at enhancing interoperability, mutual understanding, and strategic synergy between the Indian Army and the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF).
What is Exercise Bold Kurukshetra?
Exercise Bold Kurukshetra is a bilateral military exercise between India and Singapore, focusing primarily on armoured and mechanised warfare, conducted under the ambit of the India-Singapore Defence Cooperation Agreement signed in 2003. It is conducted as part of the fourth pillar of defence diplomacy — joint military training and exercises.
Launched in 2005, this exercise has grown in scale and complexity, now incorporating combined arms tactics, battlefield simulations, and operational planning. Held under the ambit of the India-Singapore Bilateral Agreement for the Conduct of Joint Army Training, this event reflects the growing convergence between the two nations on strategic and military fronts.
Exercise Bold Kurukshetra 2025: Key Highlights
Location: Jodhpur, Rajasthan
Duration: Expected to last two weeks
Participants: Mechanised Infantry Regiment (India) and 42nd Battalion Singapore Armoured Regiment (Singapore)
Focus: Simulated combat operations in semi-desert terrain, mechanised manoeuvres, joint tactical planning, and command post exercises
Technology and Training: Integration of AI-based battlefield scenarios, drones, and network-centric warfare tools
Strategic Importance of the Exercise
Strengthening Bilateral Defence Ties
The exercise serves as a symbol of mutual trust and cooperation, furthering the India-Singapore Strategic Partnership. Singapore has been one of India’s closest defence partners in Southeast Asia, and the regularity of this joint exercise reinforces that bond.Regional Security Architecture
By jointly training in realistic battlefield scenarios, both countries signal their commitment to maintaining stability in the Indo-Pacific region. It aligns with India’s Act East Policy and Singapore’s efforts to uphold rules-based international order.Capacity Building and Interoperability
Joint drills, especially in mechanised warfare and battle drills, enhance the capacity of both armies to operate together during humanitarian aid, peacekeeping, or coalition warfare scenarios.Defence Technology Exchange
Exercises like Bold Kurukshetra promote technology sharing, tactics modernisation, and cross-training in advanced platforms such as armoured vehicles, anti-tank guided missiles, and unmanned systems.
India-Singapore Defence Cooperation: An Overview
India and Singapore share robust defence relations including:
Annual ministerial dialogues and staff talks
Naval bilateral exercise ‘SIMBEX’ and Air Force Exercise ‘Joint Military Training (JMT)’
Regular port calls and high-level military exchanges
Access to Singapore’s training areas and facilities under the Defence Cooperation Agreement (renewed in 2017)
The synergy spans all three services – Army, Navy, and Air Force – making it one of the most comprehensive defence relationships India has in Southeast Asia.
Why Jodhpur?
Jodhpur provides strategic terrain ideal for desert warfare and mechanised manoeuvres. It is home to specialised training centres of the Indian Army and offers ideal infrastructure for joint command and control operations.
Conclusion
Exercise Bold Kurukshetra 2025 is more than just a military drill – it is a reflection of deep-rooted strategic trust and shared vision between India and Singapore. As regional security dynamics evolve, such initiatives will play a crucial role in shaping a secure, stable, and rules-based Indo-Pacific.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. What is Exercise Bold Kurukshetra?
Exercise Bold Kurukshetra is a bilateral military exercise between India and Singapore, primarily focusing on mechanised and armoured warfare, conducted under the India-Singapore Defence Cooperation Agreement.
Q2. Where will Exercise Bold Kurukshetra 2025 be held?
It will be held in Jodhpur, Rajasthan.
Q3. Which military units are participating in the 2025 edition?
The Indian Mechanised Infantry Regiment and the 42nd Battalion Singapore Armoured Regiment.
Q4. Why is this exercise important?
It enhances interoperability, builds mutual trust, and strengthens the strategic partnership between the two countries.
Q5. How does it support regional security?
It aligns with the Indo-Pacific vision of maintaining peace, freedom of navigation, and collaboration among like-minded nations.
Q6. How often is this exercise conducted?
The exercise is held regularly, typically every two years, and alternates in location depending on training requirements.
