• The fifth edition of India-Uzbekistan military exercise ‘Dustlik’ began in Termez in Uzbekistan on April 15.

• The exercise will conclude on April 28. 

• Dustlik exercise is conducted alternatively in India and Uzbekistan. 

• The previous edition was conducted in Uttarakhand’s Pithoragarh in February 2023.

• The first edition of the exercise was held in Uzbekistan in November 2019.

• The Indian Armed Forces contingent comprising 60 personnel is being represented by 45 personnel from the Indian Army, majorly from a Battalion of the JAT Regiment, and 15 personnel from the Indian Air Force. 

• The Uzbekistan contingent comprising approximately 100 personnel, from Uzbekistan Army and Air Force, is represented by personnel from Southern Operational Command, part of South-West Military District.

• Aim of the exercise is to foster military cooperation and enhance combined capabilities to execute joint operations in mountainous as well as semi urban terrain. 

• Exercise Dustlik will enable the two sides to share their best practices in tactics, techniques and procedures of conducting joint operations. 

• This will also enhance the level of defence cooperation, further fostering bilateral relations between the two nations.

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