Pune, India – The Indian Army and the Cambodian Army have embarked on a historic joint tabletop exercise named CINBAX at the Foreign Training Node in Pune. Running from December 1 to 8, 2024, this inaugural exercise has brought together 20 personnel from each country, with India’s contingent representing an Infantry Brigade.
According to a statement from the Ministry of Defence, the primary objective of CINBAX is to plan and execute Counter-Terrorism (CT) operations in alignment with Chapter VII of the United Nations Charter, which emphasizes peacekeeping missions. The exercise is designed to highlight the establishment of a joint training task force that will focus on addressing challenges associated with intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) in counter-terrorism contexts.
CINBAX is structured into three distinct phases, beginning with detailed planning and execution of joint strategies aimed at sub-conventional warfare, specifically tailored to counter-terrorism efforts. The exercise will also facilitate discussions on the deployment of advanced tools and methodologies to improve operational effectiveness. Key topics of deliberation will include cyber warfare, information operations, and unconventional threats, thereby ensuring preparedness for hybrid warfare scenarios.
Additionally, the exercise will accentuate coordination strategies for Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) missions, underscoring the importance of collaboration in such critical operations. A noteworthy feature of CINBAX is the focus on discussing weapons and equipment of Indian origin, which not only showcases India’s indigenous defense production capabilities but also aligns with the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative, promoting self-reliance in defense.
The inaugural edition of CINBAX aims to build trust, camaraderie, and mutual understanding between the Indian and Cambodian armed forces, ultimately striving to develop seamless interoperability and enhance operational efficiency for joint peacekeeping operations. By incorporating theme-based training, situation-based discussions, and tactical exercises, the exercise promises to provide practical insights into peacekeeping protocols, ensuring both nations are ready for complex global missions.
This exercise represents a significant advance in military relations between India and Cambodia. Both countries are committed to enhancing regional security and stability through strengthened military cooperation, effectively addressing contemporary security challenges. Moreover, CINBAX highlights India’s evolving role in multinational peacekeeping efforts and its dedication to fortifying defense ties with nations across Southeast Asia.
