India & Cambodia commence joint military exercise CINBAX‑II (4–17 May 2026)

What: CINBAX‑II started at Royal Cambodian training centre; Indian contingent: 120 personnel (Maratha Light Infantry), RCA: 160 personnel; focus on sub‑conventional operations in jungle/semi‑urban terrain, drone ops, mortars, sniper tactics; aligned with UN peacekeeping mandate.

Significance:

• Defence diplomacy: Enhances interoperability and training relevant to peacekeeping and counter‑insurgency.

• Regional security: Strengthens bilateral military ties in Southeast Asia.

UPSC relevance: Defence cooperation, capacity building for UN missions.

Practice Q: Explain the strategic importance of bilateral military exercises in furthering India’s defence diplomacy.