U.S., Indian Army Soldiers build camaraderie through tug-of-war during Yudh Abhyas 2026

AULI, India — More than 100 U.S. and Indian Army Soldiers competed in a tug-of-war event Sept. 21 during Exercise Yudh Abhyas 2026, with mixed teams of… AULI, India — More than 100 U.S. and Indian Army Soldiers competed in a tug-of-war event Sept. 21 during Exercise Yudh Abhyas 2026, with mixed teams of U.S. and Indian Soldiers advancing through a tournament bracket until a champion team was named. Soldiers from both nations were paired onto the same teams throughout the event, pulling side by side rather than competing against one another.. Teams advanced through the tournament until a single champion team emerged. Col. Ben Jackman, commander of 1st Mobile Brigade Combat Team, 11th Airborne Division, said events like the tug-of-war build the same kind of trust and cohesion soldiers rely on in training and combat.

"Moments like this are where partnerships are built," Jackman said. "When our Soldiers and the Indian Army pull together on the same rope, they're building the same trust and teamwork they'll rely on when we train and operate together in the field. That's what this partnership is about." The event gave soldiers from both armies a chance to build camaraderie outside of formal training, reinforcing the interoperability both forces have built throughout YA26. Yudh Abhyas 2026 is the 22nd iteration of the annual U.S.