India-UAE joint military exercise concludes in Abu Dhabi

The exercise DESERT CYCLONE–II concluded with a closing ceremony at Al-Hamra Training City, marking the successful culmination of intensive joint training between the Indian Army and the UAE Land Forces.

Conducted from December 18 to 30 in Abu Dhabi, the second edition of the India–UAE Joint Military Exercise reaffirmed the deepening defence partnership between the two nations and highlighted their shared commitment to regional peace, security and stability.

The exercise featured a balanced mix of classroom instruction and field-based training aimed at enhancing interoperability, mutual trust and operational synergy in an urban environment, with emphasis on sub-conventional operations under a United Nations mandate. The joint activities included urban combat fundamentals, marking and clearing of buildings, IED awareness, casualty evacuation, first aid and comprehensive mission planning.

Practical drills

The troops carried out progressive practical drills in built-up areas, covering room intervention and building clearance, heliborne operations, air assault missions and platoon-level joint assault exercises. Both armies exchanged and rehearsed drills on room intervention and clearance, enabling standardisation of tactics, techniques and procedures.

The training culminated in integrated offensive and defensive urban operations, showcasing coordinated action and combined operational readiness.

The Indian contingent comprised 45 personnel, primarily from a battalion of The Mechanised Infantry Regiment, while the UAE Land Forces were represented by the 53 Mechanised Infantry Battalion.

Exercise DESERT CYCLONE–II further strengthened professional bonds between the two armies and contributed to the development of interoperable capabilities for future multinational operations.