India and the US are conducting joint military exercises in northern India near disputed border areas with China.

The drills have continued since the middle of November in the state of Uttarakhand. About 700 Indian and American soldiers are taking part.

Troops staged war games based on the scenario of an enemy attack in a mountainous region. They tried out joint tactics for battles on steep roads, including live-fire target practice.

An Indian Army brigadier said that the forces shared best practices with each other in developing their skills on the field.

India and China have long been embroiled in territorial border disputes. Troops on both sides suffered casualties during clashes in 2020.

Amid growing geopolitical tensions, India likely hopes to keep China in check by conducting such drills with the US. But observers say that New Deli's stance could trigger a backlash from Beijing.