Rajasthan is the site of India and the United Arab Emirates’ joint military exercise, “Desert Cyclone.” Learning and exchanging best practices in operations is the exercise’s goal in improving interoperability. Prior to this, on January 2, 45 soldiers from both India and the UAE participated in the two-week-long “Desert Cyclone” joint military drill in Rajasthan. A news release from the Ministry of Defence stated that the UAE Land Forces contingent has arrived to take part in the first India-UAE Joint Military Exercise, “Desert Cyclone.” In Mahajan, Rajasthan, there is an exercise that will last until January 15.
The UAE contingent is being represented by troops from the Zayed First Brigade. The Indian Army contingent comprising 45 personnel 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.
The exercise will enhance cooperation and interoperability between both sides during peacekeeping operations.
Drills planned to be rehearsed during Exercise ‘Desert Cyclone’ include the establishment of a Joint Surveillance Centre, Cordon and Search Operation, Domination of Built-Up Area and Heliborne Operations. The Exercise will also foster collaborative partnership and help in sharing best practices between the two sides.