India recently took a strategic step after withdrawing its troops from the Line of Actual Control in eastern Ladakh. Accordingly, India is conducting a tri-service military exercise called “Eastern Strike”. The purpose of this exercise is to demonstrate the comprehensive defense capabilities of India’s eastern border. The Indian Army, Navy and Air Force are working together to participate in Exercise Eastern Strike. During this exercise, they will demonstrate their combat readiness.
The Army plans to deploy infantry combat units, artillery, light combat helicopters and drones. The Indian Air Force will activate its main air bases at Kolkata, Hashimara, Panagarh and Kalaikunda using its fleet of Sukhoi-30MKI, Rafale, C-130J, Eagle and various helicopter units. In addition, the Indian Navy’s Marcos Commandos will also participate in the exercise.
Defensive positions must be strengthened
The purpose of this exercise is to test the coordination of the army, navy and air force and strengthen the combat readiness and defense posture in the eastern region. The timing of the eastern attack is strategically important as India is strengthening its military position along the Arunachal Pradesh border. Following the successful disengagement in eastern Ladakh, talks are also underway with China to ease tensions in the eastern region.
The talks include efforts to restore patrol rights in the Tawang area of ​​the Yangtze River region, where restrictions were imposed following clashes with the People’s Liberation Army in December 2022. With ongoing negotiations with China, India is enhancing its joint operations capabilities along the Line of Actual Control. This dual approach can enhance India’s ability to resolve problems peacefully.
What did the Foreign Minister say?
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar went to Brisbane and when asked by Indian citizens, he raised issues regarding India and China in eastern Ladakh. He said there had been some progress in the situation in India and China. He said that due to some reasons, there was a rift in India-China relations, but the troops of both countries had withdrawn from eastern Ladakh.
