India, UAE begin ‘Mountain Guardian’ military exercise

• ‘Mountain Guardian’ military exercise involving troops of India and the UAE commenced at the Foreign Training Node, Chaubatia, Uttarakhand on October 5. It will conclude on October 18.

• A total of 92 personnel, with equal representation from both armies, are participating in the exercise.

• The Indian Army contingent comprises troops from Bhairav Battalion, while the UAE Army contingent has troops from a Mountain Infantry Battalion.

• The exercise aims to enhance interoperability, mutual understanding and cooperation, with a focus on mountain warfare.

• During the exercise, troops will undertake joint planning, tactical drills, firing practices, surveillance, drone operations, physical endurance training, rock climbing, obstacle training and integrated field exercises.

Other bilateral exercises with UAE:

• Desert Cyclone - Army

• Zayed Talwar - Navy

• Desert Flag - Air Force.

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