India-Cambodia Joint Military Exercise CINBAX-II 2026

Overview

The CINBAX-II 2026 marks the second edition of the India-Cambodia Joint Military Exercise, reflecting deepening defence cooperation between the two nations.

Key Facts

• Edition: 2nd (Second edition)
• Venue: Kampong Speu Province, Cambodia
• First Edition: Pune, India (December 2024)
• Indian Contingent: 120 personnel from Maratha Light Infantry Regiment
• Cambodian Contingent: 160 personnel from Royal Cambodian Army

Objectives

• Achieve operational synergy between armed forces
• Share best practices in military operations
• Enhance coordination during joint missions
• Focus on counter-terrorism operations against hostile forces

Focus Areas

Training Domains

• Counter-Terrorism (CT) operations in sub-conventional environments
• Semi-urban terrain operations
• Jungle warfare settings
• Modern combat skills:
• Drone operations
• Sniper tactics
• Mortar handling

Legal Framework

• Conducted under Chapter VII of the UN Charter
• Aligned with modern UN peacekeeping operations
• Chapter VII empowers UN Security Council to:
• Impose binding economic sanctions
• Authorize military force
• Maintain/restore international peace and security

Strategic Significance

Defence Diplomacy

• Strengthens India-Cambodia defence ties
• Part of India's broader military diplomacy
• Supports Act East Policy, 2014
• Enhances regional security cooperation

Regional Context

• Complements India's engagement with ASEAN
• Builds interoperability with regional partners
• Demonstrates India's security commitment in the Indo-Pacific

India-ASEAN Connection

CINBAX-II is part of India's broader strategy to strengthen ASEAN relations through defence cooperation, aligning with the vision of "Forging a New Era of India-ASEAN Relations."

Key Terms to Remember