An Indian Army contingent has left for the United Arab Emirates (UAE) to take part in the India-UAE Joint Military Exercise DESERT CYCLONE-II, scheduled from 18 to 30 December 2025 in Abu Dhabi. The contingent consists of 45 personnel, primarily from The Mechanised Infantry Regiment, while the UAE is represented by the 53 Mechanised Infantry Battalion, also of similar strength.
The exercise aims to enhance interoperability and strengthen defense cooperation between the two armies through joint training focused on sub-conventional operations in an urban environment, under a United Nations mandate. The training includes a range of tactical drills, such as fighting in built-up areas, heliborne operations, and mission planning, alongside the incorporation of Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) and counter-UAS techniques.
Following recent high-level visits by commanders of the UAE Land Forces and Presidential Guard, Exercise DESERT CYCLONE-II is expected to further solidify the bilateral defense cooperation between India and the UAE. The exercise highlights the strategic partnership and military diplomacy between the nations, emphasizing shared commitments to regional peace, security, and stability, while promoting mutual understanding and the development of interoperable military capabilities.
