India-UAE joint military exercise ‘Desert Cyclone’ begins

New Delhi: The two-week long India-UAE joint military exercise ‘Desert Cyclone’ began in Rajasthan, involving 45 personnel representing each service. UAE land force contingent arrived to participate in the first edition of the India-UAE joint military exercise ‘Desert Cyclone’, a Defense Ministry press statement said.

This exercise, which will continue till January 15, is taking place in Mahajan, Rajasthan. The UAE contingent is being represented by soldiers from the Zayed First Brigade. The Indian Army contingent of 45 personnel is being represented primarily by a battalion of the Mechanized Infantry Regiment. The exercise aims to enhance interoperability in sub-conventional operations, including fighting in built-up areas (FIBUA) in desert or semi-desert terrain under Chapter VII of the United Nations Charter on Peacekeeping Operations.

The exercise will enhance cooperation and interoperability between the two sides during peacekeeping operations. The exercises planned during Exercise ‘Desert Cyclone’ include establishment of a joint surveillance centre, cordon and search operations, built up area dominance and heliborne operations. The exercise will also promote collaborative partnership and help in sharing best practices between both the parties. The exercise symbolizes further strengthening of the bonds of friendship and trust between India and the UAE. The exercise also aims to achieve common security objectives and promote bilateral relations between the two friendly countries.