India has officially deployed a 65-member tri-services contingent to Russia for the multinational military exercise ZAPAD 2025, scheduled to run from September 10 to 16 at the Mulino Training Ground in Nizhny Novgorod.
The Indian team includes 57 soldiers from the Army, largely drawn from the Kumaon Regiment, seven officers and airmen from the Indian Air Force, and one representative from the Navy. This diverse participation underscores New Delhi’s commitment to joint operations and integrated defence preparedness.
According to defence officials, the upcoming drills will test and refine interoperability, tactical manoeuvres, and counter-terrorism operations in diverse battle conditions. Company-level joint training is expected to focus on mission planning, terrain warfare, coordination of firepower, and deployment of specialised units.
Exercise ZAPAD, a Russian-hosted series of large-scale drills, brings together military contingents from several nations. For India, involvement in this edition offers a platform to exchange operational knowledge, adapt to emerging technologies, and reinforce ties with both Russia and other participating countries.
Strategic observers view India’s participation as a balancing act-enhancing operational readiness while maintaining defence engagement with multiple partners worldwide. By joining ZAPAD 2025, India signals its intent to remain an active contributor in shaping the global security environment.
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