Sun, 17 May 2026
India News Updated May 17, 2026 · 13:36

India-Cambodia Joint Military Exercise CINBAX-II 2026 Concludes Successfully

The second edition of the Indian-Cambodia joint military exercise CINBAX-II 2026 has been successfully concluded in Cambodia after two weeks of bilateral defence engagements. The exercise was held between the Indian Army and the Royal Cambodian Army in Kampong Speu Province, with a closing ceremony on May 16. Activities included tactical drills, drone operations, sniper training, and mortar handling to simulate modern combat scenarios. The exercise strengthens bilateral military relations and supports India's Act East Policy for deeper engagement with ASEAN nations.

India, Cambodia strengthen tactical coordination, interoperability with joint military exercise CINBAX-II 2026

Phnom Penh, May 17

The second edition of the Indian-Cambodia joint military exercise CINBAX-II 2026 has been concluded in Cambodia, marking the successful completion of a two-week-long bilateral defence engagement aimed at enhancing tactical coordination and interoperability between the two forces.

The exercise, held between the Indian Army and the Royal Cambodian Army in Cambodia's Kampong Speu Province, was concluded on May 16.

Sharing details of the closing ceremony on Sunday, the Indian Army said, "The Closing Ceremony of the second edition of joint military Exercise CINBAX II 2026, between the Indian Army and The Royal Cambodian Army was held on 16 May 2026, at Techo Sen Phnom Thom Mreas Prov Royal Cambodian Air Force Training Centre, Kampong Speu Province, Kingdom of Cambodia."

The Army further stated that "The exercise underscores joint coordination in planning and execution of coordinated tactical operations in a sub-conventional, semi-urban environment."

According to the post, soldiers from both countries demonstrated a high level of professionalism during the exercise. "Over the course of 14 days, both the contingents displayed a high degree of professionalism and commitment while executing the tactical drills, which culminated with a validation exercise," the Indian Army said.

Highlighting the significance of the exercise, the Army added, "CINBAX II 2026 strengthens bilateral military relations and foster ties between the two nations."

Exercise CINBAX-II 2026 was conducted at the Techo Sen Phnom Thom Mreas Provincial Royal Cambodian Air Force Training Centre in Kampong Speu Province, Cambodia. The joint military drill focused on improving interoperability, operational coordination and tactical understanding between the Indian Army and the Royal Cambodian Army.

Training activities during the exercise included tactical drills, drone operations, sniper training, mortar handling and field exercises designed to simulate modern combat scenarios. The exercise concluded with a comprehensive validation drill aimed at testing operational synergy between the two armies.

The exercise is part of India's broader efforts to strengthen defence cooperation with ASEAN nations under its Act East Policy and deepen strategic engagement in the Indo-Pacific region.

— IANS

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P
Priya S
I'm glad India is expanding its defence partnerships, but I hope we also focus on soft power - cultural exchanges, trade, and educational ties with Cambodia. Military exercises are important, but long-term relationships grow through people-to-people connections too.
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Michael C
Interesting development. India's Act East Policy is smart - building military-to-military relationships with ASEAN countries creates a balancing dynamic in the Indo-Pacific. The inclusion of drone and mortar training shows these exercises are practical, not just ceremonial.
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Vikram M
The focus on semi-urban environment training is very relevant given the nature of modern conflicts and peacekeeping missions. India's experience in jungle warfare and counter-insurgency will be valuable for the Royal Cambodian Army. Win-win partnership!
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Sarah B
As someone who follows regional geopolitics, I see this as India quietly building influence in mainland Southeast Asia. While China has huge economic clout in Cambodia, this military exercise shows India can offer strategic alternatives. Every little step counts.
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Kavya N
My cousin was part of CINBAX-1 last year and he said the Cambodian soldiers were very professional and eager to learn. These exchanges build trust at the ground level. Also, Kampong Speu province is beautiful - hope our troops enjoyed the local culture too! 😊
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