On March 12 in New Delhi, Lieutenant General Joel B Vowell, Deputy Commanding General of the United States Army Pacific (USARPAC), convened with Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Upendra Dwivedi to discuss enhancing the defence collaboration between India and the US.

The dialogue between the two military leaders primarily revolved around regional security in the Indo-Pacific, advancing interoperability through combined military drills, and identifying new paths for military-to-military cooperation across diverse sectors.

The Indian Army’s Additional Directorate General of Public Information (ADGPI) shared on X: “Lieutenant General Joel B Vowell met with General Upendra Dwivedi to explore strategies to fortify the India-US defence alliance.”

“The meeting emphasized regional security in the Indo-Pacific, focusing on improving interoperability through joint military exercises and seeking new means of enhancing military cooperation across various domains. The discussions reinforced the growing strategic alignment and mutual commitment of both armies to tackle emerging security issues,” the statement elaborated.

Earlier, Lieutenant General Vowell also engaged with Vice Chief of Army Staff Lieutenant General Pushpendra Singh, where they explored further collaboration between the armed forces of both countries. Their discussions also centered on the security landscape in the Indo-Pacific, fostering military engagement, and boosting interoperability through joint training exercises.

The ADGPI noted, “Lieutenant General Joel B Vowell and Lieutenant General Pushpendra Singh discussed opportunities for greater India-US Army cooperation. The talks highlighted the regional security dynamics in the Indo-Pacific and the need for enhanced military engagement and interoperability through joint exercises and training, showcasing the increasingly strategic partnership and shared commitment of both armies to ensure stability and security in the region.”

Last month marked the 16th edition of the 21-day India-US Joint Special Forces Exercise Vajra Prahar 2026, which is being conducted in Himachal Pradesh’s Bakloh from February 24 to March 16.

This elite Special Forces exercise between the Indian Army and the US Army is taking place at the Special Forces Training School in Bakloh.

The purpose of this exercise is to deepen defence cooperation, enhance interoperability and operational readiness, and facilitate the exchange of advanced tactics, techniques, and procedures for special operations in mountainous terrains. Through rigorous and realistic training scenarios, both contingents aim to bolster mutual trust and operational synergy,” stated the ADGPI.

The Ministry of Defence indicated that the Indian Army's representation in the exercise includes Special Forces units comprising 45 personnel, while the United States is represented by 12 members from the Green Berets. The exercise is anticipated to significantly enhance interoperability, mutual trust, and professional camaraderie between the Special Forces of India and the US.