India and the United Arab Emirates continue to deepen their strategic defense partnership through regular joint military exercises. Desert Cyclone II, the second edition of the bilateral army exercise, concluded successfully in Abu Dhabi, showcasing growing interoperability, trust, and coordination between the armed forces of both nations.
Why in the News?
The second edition of the India-UAE joint military exercise Desert Cyclone II concluded on December 30, 2025, in Abu Dhabi after nearly two weeks of intensive training aimed at enhancing interoperability and cooperation in urban and sub-conventional warfare operations.
About Exercise Desert Cyclone II
Desert Cyclone II is a bilateral military exercise between the Indian Army and the UAE Land Forces. Conducted from December 18 to 30, 2025, at Al-Hamra Training City in Abu Dhabi, the exercise reflects the growing defence ties and shared security interests of India and the UAE.
Participating Contingents
The Indian contingent consisted of 45 personnel, mainly from a battalion of the Mechanized Infantry Regiment. The UAE Land Forces were represented by the 53 Mechanized Infantry Battalion. Both contingents trained together in realistic operational settings to enhance coordination and mutual understanding in joint missions.
Training Objectives and Focus Areas
The exercise was designed to enhance interoperability in urban warfare and sub conventional operations under a United Nations mandate. Emphasis was placed on peacekeeping, counter-terrorism and stability operations, enabling both armies to operate seamlessly in multinational and joint operational environments.
Key Training Activities
The structured training program combined classroom instruction with field exercises. Key activities included urban combat drills, marking and clearing of buildings, IED awareness, casualty evacuation, first aid, and detailed mission planning. Progressive drills in built up areas helped standardize tactics, techniques, and procedures between the two forces.
Advanced Operations and Joint Drills
Desert Cyclone II also featured heliborne operations and air assault drills. These activities culminated in integrated offensive and defensive urban operations, demonstrating high levels of coordination, combat readiness, and joint operational capability. The exchange of best practices strengthened professional bonds between the participating soldiers.
India-UAE Defense Cooperation
India and the UAE share a comprehensive strategic partnership, with defense cooperation as a key pillar. Regular joint exercises, training exchanges, and defense dialogues enhance regional security and stability. Desert Cyclone exercises contribute to India’s broader defense diplomacy in West Asia and support India’s role in global peacekeeping operations.
Strategic Significance of Desert Cyclone II
The exercise reinforces India-UAE military ties, enhances readiness for urban and counter vterror operations, and builds interoperable capabilities essential for future multinational missions. It also reflects shared commitment to regional peace, security, and stability amid evolving global and regional security challenges.
Key Summary At Glance
| Aspect | Details |
| Why in news? | Conclusion of Desert Cyclone II joint exercise |
| Participating countries | India and United Arab Emirates |
| Location | Al-Hamra Training City, Abu Dhabi |
| Indian contingent | 45 personnel (Mechanised Infantry) |
| UAE contingent | 53 Mechanised Infantry Battalion |
| Focus areas | Urban warfare, counter-terrorism, UN-mandated operations |
Question
Q. Exercise Desert Cyclone II is a joint military exercise between India and which country?
A. Saudi Arabia
B. Oman
C. United Arab Emirates
D. Qatar
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