India And UAE Launch Joint Military Exercise 'Desert Cyclone' In Rajasthan

The armies of India and the UAE have begun the first edition of a two-week military exercise in Rajasthan's Mahajan area, reflecting the two countries' growing defence engagement.

The Ministry of Defence, in an official statement, said that the inaugural edition of the India-UAE Joint Military Exercise, named 'Desert Cyclone,' commenced in Mahajan, Rajasthan on Tuesday (January 2). The two-week-long exercise is set to run from January 2 to 15.

The UAE contingent, comprising 45 personnel from the Zayed First Brigade, has arrived in India for the exercise. Concurrently, the Indian Army has mobilised a Battalion from the Mechanised Infantry Regiment, also comprising 45 personnel, to participate in this joint endeavour.

"The UAE contingent is being represented by troops from the Zayed First Brigade.  The Indian Army contingent comprising 45 personnel is being represented mainly by a Battalion from the Mechanised Infantry Regiment," the statement said. 

The primary objective, as articulated in the official statement by the Ministry of Defence, is to bolster interoperability in sub-conventional operations, particularly Fighting in Built-Up Area (FIBUA), within desert and semi-desert terrains. This collaboration falls under Chapter VII of the United Nations Charter on Peacekeeping Operations, aiming to elevate cooperation and mutual understanding during peacekeeping operations.

"The Exercise aims to enhance interoperability in Sub-conventional Operations including Fighting in Built-Up Area (FIBUA) in desert/ semi-desert terrain under Chapter VII of the United Nations Charter on Peacekeeping Operations," the statement said.

During 'Desert Cyclone,' various drills have been meticulously planned to enhance tactical proficiency, the statement said. These exercises encompass the establishment of a Joint Surveillance Centre, cordon and search operations, domination of built-up areas, and heliborne operations. Such activities aim not only to refine military strategies but also to facilitate the exchange of best practices between the armed forces of both nations, it added further. 

Furthermore, the exercise symbolises the deepening friendship and trust between India and the UAE. By working together, the nations strive to achieve shared security objectives, reinforcing their bilateral relations and mutual commitment to regional stability, the statement said.