US holds Valiant Shield wargames in western Pacific; India deepens Vietnam push

The United States Pacific Command, alongside allied and partner forces, has launched Exercise Valiant Shield 2026 across the Northern Mariana Islands, Guam and Japan, east of the Philippines.

Now in its 11th iteration, the biennial drill has evolved from a unilateral US exercise into a multilateral wargame that showcases interoperability and reflects the shifting demands of the Indo-Pacific security environment.Valiant Shield 2026 integrates air, land, sea, space and cyber operations, with US Space Command and US Transportation Command expanding multidomain collaboration. The deployment of systems such as the Typhon missile system and HIMARS to Japan’s Kanoya Air Base underscores the exercise’s emphasis on advanced firepower and integrated air and missile defence.

Australia, Japan, Canada and New Zealand are participating, with Australia contributing a P-8A Poseidon and embedded personnel.Admiral Steve Koehler, commander of US Pacific Fleet, described the exercise as a demonstration of an “enduring commitment to a free and open Indo‑Pacific,” highlighting its role in preparing joint forces for contingencies ranging from humanitarian response to armed conflict. The drills project regional power and ensure allied forces can operate in a complex, multidomain environment.

Indian Navy’s Vietnam engagement: strengthening maritime partnershipsParallel to these developments, the Indian Navy has deepened regional outreach with a port call at Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. Ships INS Udaygiri and INS Kavaratti, under Rear Admiral Alok Ananda, visited from June 22–24, engaging in professional exchanges and bilateral drills with the Vietnam People’s Navy.The visit included ceremonial and cultural elements, such as a wreath-laying at the statue of President Ho Chi Minh and a joint yoga session aboard INS Kavaratti to mark International Day of Yoga.

Operationally, both navies exchanged lessons and reinforced their commitment to maritime security and safe seas. The Indian ambassador to Vietnam hosted dignitaries and naval representatives aboard INS Udaygiri.The port call reaffirmed India and Vietnam’s Enhanced Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, rooted in mutual trust and converging interests. It reflects India’s Act East Policy and the MAHASAGAR vision — Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions — emphasizing constructive maritime cooperation and a sustained presence in the Indo‑Pacific.