Indian Army heads to Cambodia for high-stakes war games — Here’s what’s planned

The exercise is scheduled to take place from May 4 to 17 at the Techo Sen Phnom Thom Mreas Prov Royal Cambodian Air Force Training Centre (Camp Basil) in Kampong Speu Province, Cambodia.

Held as part of India’s ongoing defence engagement with friendly foreign countries, CINBAX-II assumes significance against the backdrop of evolving global security challenges. The exercise will be conducted under the framework of Chapter VII of the UN mandate and will feature company-level joint training focused on operations in sub-conventional environments.

The Indian contingent comprises 120 personnel, primarily drawn from a battalion of the Maratha Light Infantry Regiment. The Cambodian side will be represented by 160 personnel from the Royal Cambodian Army.

The joint exercise is aligned with the current dynamics of counter-terrorism operations encountered during UN peacekeeping missions. It will include a combination of practical drills, tactical exercises, and in-depth discussions, culminating in a comprehensive validation phase.

Specialised training modules such as drone operations, mortar handling, and sniper tactics will also form a key part of the exercise.

The primary objective of CINBAX-II 2026 is to enhance interoperability, coordination, and operational synergy between the armed forces of both nations. The exercise will also facilitate the exchange of best practices and operational experiences gained in handling hostile situations in semi-urban environments.

CINBAX-II 2026 underscores the growing defence cooperation between India and Cambodia, further strengthening bilateral ties while contributing to a shared understanding of regional and global security challenges.