NEW DELHI: In a development signifying greater strategic cooperation between the two countries, the first ever joint military exercise between the armed forces of India and UAE has commenced in the deserts of western Indian province of Rajasthan.
The exercise christened as ‘Desert Cyclone’ is the beginning of a new era of cooperation between the two friendly nations. The exercise also aims to achieve shared security objectives and foster bilateral relations between two friendly nations.
The two-week-long military exercise is being attended by 45 chosen personnel representing each of the forces. The exercise that will run till January 15 is happening near the city of Bikaner in Rajasthan.
“The UAE Land Forces contingent arrived to participate in the 1st edition of the India-UAE Joint Military Exercise ‘Desert Cyclone’, said a press statement from the Ministry of Defence.
The UAE contingent is being represented by troops from the Zayed First Brigade. The Indian Army contingent is being represented mainly by a battalion from the Mechanised 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,” said the government release.
The exercise will enhance cooperation and interoperability between both sides during peacekeeping operations. Drills planned to be rehearsed during the exercise include the establishment of a Joint Surveillance Centre, Cordon and Search Operation, Domination of Built-Up Area and Heliborne Operations, it added.
The Indo-UAE joint exercise will foster collaborative partnership and help in sharing best practices between the two sides and it signifies further strengthening of bonds of friendship and trust between India and the UAE.
