Desert Cyclone: India-UAE Joint Military Exercise Unveils Key Objectives in Rajasthan

In the expansive desert terrain of Mahajan, Rajasthan, the inaugural two-week-long joint military exercise 'Desert Cyclone' between India and the UAE is currently underway, scheduled to run until January 15. This significant collaboration aims to bolster interoperability, fostering a stronger alliance between the two nations.

Here are 5 key aspects of the Desert Cyclone exercise:

1. Troop Representation: The UAE is represented by the Zayed First Brigade troops, while the Indian Army contingent, consisting of 45 personnel, hails predominantly from a Battalion of the Mechanised Infantry Regiment.

2. Operational Focus: 'Desert Cyclone' places a primary emphasis on enhancing interoperability in Sub-conventional Operations, specifically honing skills in Fighting in Built-Up Area (FIBUA) within desert and semi-desert terrains.

3. Strategic Goals: This joint military exercise is strategically designed to elevate cooperation and interoperability between the participating forces, particularly during peacekeeping operations, solidifying the partnership between India and the UAE.

4. Crucial Drills: The exercise involves the rehearsal of vital drills, including establishing a joint surveillance centre, cordon and search operations, domination of built-up areas, and heliborne operations. These exercises aim to refine skills essential for effective peacekeeping in challenging terrains.

5. Collaborative Partnership: A significant outcome of 'Desert Cyclone' is the development of a collaborative partnership between the armed forces of India and the UAE, crucial for achieving shared security objectives and reinforcing bilateral relations.

Joint military exercises, such as 'Desert Cyclone,' contribute to constructive engagements, enhancing armed forces' skills in various areas of war-fighting through cooperation with diverse nations. This exchange of tactical and technological practices promotes continuous improvement and modernization of military operations. Notably, earlier this year, the Indian Navy's participation in the 'Zayed Talwar' exercise with the UAE Navy further exemplified the commitment to enhancing interoperability and synergy between the two nations.