India and Singapore deepen military collaboration
Bold Kurukshetra 2025 Strengthens Indo-Singapore Defence Ties: India and Singapore have commenced the ‘Bold Kurukshetra 2025’ military exercise in the desert terrain of Jodhpur, Rajasthan. This joint initiative focuses on urban combat, counter-terrorism preparedness, and enhancing interoperability between the two armed forces.
This exercise is a significant part of the strategic defence cooperation under India’s Act East Policy, further cementing bilateral military ties.
Background and origin
The ‘Bold Kurukshetra’ series was launched under a framework of enhanced defence partnership between India and the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF).
It complements other joint military engagements such as SIMBEX (naval) and Joint Air Training Exercises, contributing to an all-domain cooperation model. Previous editions have alternated between India and Singapore, allowing troops to adapt to diverse terrains.
Static GK fact: The first India-Singapore defence cooperation agreement was signed in 2003, laying the foundation for such joint exercises.
Primary objectives of the 2025 edition
The core aim of the 2025 edition is to prepare both forces for real-time combat scenarios through shared tactical training.
- Interoperability: Establishing seamless coordination for future multi-nation deployments.
- Urban warfare tactics: Adapting to modern military theatres in urbanised environments.
- Counter-terrorism readiness: Conducting live drills simulating asymmetric threats.
- Real-time planning: Enhancing decision-making skills under simulated battlefield stress.
Key highlights of the exercise
The 2025 edition is being conducted under demanding desert conditions, simulating complex and rugged operational environments.
- Joint manoeuvres: Focused on urban clearance drills, close-quarter battle, and coordinated mission execution.
- Advanced systems: Integration of high-tech communications, real-time surveillance, and precision weaponry.
- Doctrine exchange: Sharing military best practices, operational knowledge, and experience in joint command structures.
Static GK Tip: Jodhpur is home to the South Western Command of the Indian Army, playing a vital role in military preparedness in desert terrain.
Broader strategic significance
The joint exercise reinforces India’s regional and global defence cooperation posture.
- Strengthening bilateral trust: A tangible result of deep-rooted diplomatic and military engagements.
- Regional security assurance: Contributes to Indo-Pacific stability amid evolving geopolitical challenges.
- Model for global collaboration: Acts as a blueprint for other democratic nations aiming for military synergy.
Static GK fact: The Indo-Pacific region includes key global maritime routes and is crucial for international trade and security cooperation.
Static Usthadian Current Affairs Table
Bold Kurukshetra 2025 Strengthens Indo-Singapore Defence Ties:
| Topic | Detail |
| Location of Bold Kurukshetra 2025 | Jodhpur, Rajasthan |
| Key Focus Areas | Urban warfare, counter-terrorism, interoperability |
| Participating Forces | Indian Army and Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) |
| Duration of Exercise | Scheduled until July 30, 2025 |
| Associated Naval Exercise | SIMBEX |
| Act East Policy | India’s strategic approach towards Southeast Asia |
| Jodhpur’s Military Significance | Headquarters of South Western Command of Indian Army |
| Year Defence Pact Began | 2003 |
| Terrain Used for Exercise | Desert |
| Indo-Pacific Role | Strengthens collective defence posture in the region |
