India-Kyrgyzstan Joint Special Forces Exercise KHANJAR-XII

The 12th edition of the India-Kyrgyzstan Joint Special Forces Exercise KHANJAR-XII is set to take place in Kyrgyzstan from 10 March to 23 March 2025. Since its inception in 2011, the KHANJAR exercise has evolved into a significant annual training event aimed at enhancing military cooperation between the two nations. The exercise highlights the growing strategic partnership between India and Kyrgyzstan, reinforcing their commitment to regional peace, stability, and security.

Historical Background and Evolution of Exercise KHANJAR

Exercise KHANJAR was first introduced in 2011 as part of the growing defense collaboration between India and Kyrgyzstan. Over the years, it has developed into an annual military training event held alternately in both nations. This rotational hosting ensures that both countries benefit from diverse terrains and operational conditions, preparing their Special Forces for a wide range of combat scenarios.

The previous edition of the exercise, KHANJAR-XI, was conducted in India in January 2024. This continuous engagement reflects the strong defense ties and trust between the two nations.

Participating Contingents

The Indian Army contingent in KHANJAR-XII is represented by troops from The Parachute Regiment (Special Forces), known for their elite skills in counter-terrorism and high-altitude warfare. On the other hand, the Kyrgyzstan contingent is represented by the Kyrgyz Scorpion Brigade, a highly trained unit specializing in special operations and mountain warfare.

Objectives and Key Focus Areas of KHANJAR-XII

The primary objective of Exercise KHANJAR-XII is to facilitate the exchange of experiences and best practices in Counter-Terrorism (CT) operations and Special Forces missions in urban and mountainous high-altitude terrains. The training is structured to address evolving security challenges, particularly those posed by international terrorism and extremism.

Key Focus Areas:

• Counter-Terrorism Operations: The participating troops will undergo specialized training in neutralizing terror threats in both urban and mountainous environments.
• Advanced Special Forces Skills: The exercise will emphasize skills such as sniping, complex building interventions, and mountain warfare.
• High-Altitude Warfare Training: Given the geographical landscape of Kyrgyzstan, special training will be conducted to enhance the endurance and operational capability of the troops in high-altitude conditions.
• Joint Planning and Execution: The forces will conduct coordinated mock operations, simulating real-time special operations to enhance interoperability and coordination.

Strengthening Military and Cultural Ties

Beyond rigorous military training, KHANJAR-XII will also feature cultural exchanges, reinforcing the historical and cultural ties between India and Kyrgyzstan. One of the key highlights of this exchange will be the celebration of Nowruz, a significant festival in Central Asia, symbolizing new beginnings and unity.

This cultural engagement is expected to foster stronger bonds of friendship and mutual understanding between the military personnel of both nations, creating an environment of trust and cooperation.

Strategic Importance of KHANJAR-XII

This joint exercise holds immense strategic significance for both countries, as it provides an opportunity to strengthen defense ties while addressing common concerns such as global terrorism, extremism, and regional security. The exercise will:

• Enhance military preparedness against potential security threats.
• Improve bilateral defense cooperation between India and Kyrgyzstan.
• Strengthen regional security by reinforcing counter-terrorism strategies.
• Facilitate the exchange of tactical knowledge and experience between elite forces.

Summary of KHANJAR-XII Exercise (India-Kyrgyzstan Joint Special Forces Exercise)