How Does ‘Exercise Bold Kurukshetra 2025’ Strengthen India-Singapore Defence Ties?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Exercise enhances India-Singapore defence ties.
- Focus on mechanised warfare strategies.
- Involvement of key military leaders from both nations.
- Symbolic flag transfer demonstrates trust.
- Boosts regional stability and peacekeeping capabilities.
New Delhi, July 27 (NationPress) The 14th iteration of the India-Singapore joint military exercise, ‘Exercise Bold Kurukshetra 2025’, has officially launched in Jodhpur, Rajasthan, on Sunday. This event, which will continue until August 4, aims to enhance defence collaboration and operational synergy between the military forces of both nations.
The exercise includes the participation of India’s Mechanised Infantry Regiment alongside the 42 Singapore Armoured Regiment from the 4 Singapore Armoured Brigade.
This year's format features a Table Top Exercise combined with a Computer-Based Wargame, aimed at validating mechanised warfare techniques under a United Nations directive. Colonel Arjun Ganapathi, leading the Indian contingent, and Lieutenant Colonel Khiew Zhi Yoong, heading the Singaporean side, are key figures in this collaborative effort.
The opening ceremony welcomed high-ranking military officials, including Brigadier Pritam, the commander of the 340 (I) Mechanised Brigade, and Colonel Wong Zeng Yu, commander of the 4 Singapore Armoured Brigade, who served as chief guests.
A ceremonial transfer of the Regimental Flag from the Singaporean contingent to the Indian forces symbolized the formal assumption of operational responsibility, reflecting the spirit of collaboration and trust between these two nations.
The exercise will conclude with a significant equipment demonstration by the Indian Army, aimed at sharing capabilities and enhancing tactical understanding. The drill is designed to boost interoperability, facilitate the exchange of best practices, and promote joint mission readiness.
Exercise Bold Kurukshetra 2025 exemplifies the growing strategic ties between India and Singapore, contributing to regional stability and peacekeeping capabilities. This ongoing collaboration underscores both nations' commitment to maintaining a robust and responsive defence partnership in the Indo-Pacific region.
In recent years, India and Singapore have fortified their defence relations. During the sixth India-Singapore Defence Ministerial Dialogue in New Delhi last year, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and his Singaporean counterpart agreed to enhance defence and industry cooperation, particularly in automation and artificial intelligence.