India, UAE commence ‘Exercise Desert Cyclone’ in Abu Dhabi

• Militaries of India and the UAE commenced the second edition of ‘Exercise Desert Cyclone’ in Abu Dhabi on December 18.

• The exercise will conclude on December 30.

• The Indian contingent comprises 45 personnel, primarily from a battalion of the Mechanised Infantry Regiment. 

• The UAE Land Forces contingent, of similar strength, is represented by the 53 Mechanised Infantry Battalion.

• The aim of the exercise is to enhance interoperability and foster defence cooperation between the Indian Army and the UAE Land Forces through joint training in an urban environment, with a focus on sub-conventional operations under a United Nations mandate, enabling both forces to operate together in peacekeeping, counter-terrorism and stability operations.

• Over nearly two weeks, troops from both countries will jointly train on a wide spectrum of tactical drills, including fighting in built-up areas, heliborne operations and detailed mission planning.

• In addition, the integration of UAS (Unmanned Aerial System) and counter-UAS techniques will be carried out for conduct of operations in built-up areas.

• Exercise Desert Cyclone will strengthen bilateral defence cooperation between India and the UAE.

• The conduct of the exercise underscores the deepening strategic partnership and military diplomacy between India and the UAE, reaffirming the shared commitment of both nations to regional peace, security and stability.

Other bilateral exercises with UAE:

• Zayed Talwar - Navy

• Desert Eagle - Air Force.

(The author is a trainer for Civil Services aspirants.)