Joint Military Exercise ‘DESERT CYCLONE’ Kicks Off in Rajasthan, India, Strengthening India-UAE Strategic Ties
In a significant display of military collaboration, the inaugural edition of the India-UAE Joint Military Exercise, codenamed ‘DESERT CYCLONE,’ commenced in the Mahajan region of Rajasthan. The exercise, spanning from January 2nd to January 15th, 2024, brings together 45 personnel from both the UAE Land Forces and the Indian Army.
Representing the Zayed First Brigade, the UAE contingent arrived in India to engage in Sub-conventional Operations, focusing on Fighting in Built-Up Area (FIBUA) within desert and semi-desert terrains. Aligned with Chapter VII of the United Nations Charter on Peacekeeping Operations, the primary goal is to enhance interoperability and cooperation between the forces, specifically during Peace Keeping Operations.
The Indian Army’s contingent, comprising 45 personnel, predominantly consists of a Battalion from the Mechanised Infantry Regiment. During ‘DESERT CYCLONE,’ the joint forces will execute various drills, including the Establishment of a Joint Surveillance Centre, Cordon and Search Operation, Domination of Built-Up Area, and Heliborne Operations. These exercises aim to refine collaborative strategies and share best practices between the participating nations.
The joint military exercise signifies a deepening of ties and mutual trust between India and the UAE, as it endeavors to achieve shared security objectives and strengthen bilateral relations. ‘DESERT CYCLONE’ serves as a platform for both nations to foster a collaborative partnership, ensuring the seamless execution of military operations in challenging environments.