India-UAE Joint Exercise ‘Desert Cyclone 2024’ Kicks Off In Rajasthan

The collaborative military exercise ‘Desert Cyclone 2024‘ is set to mark a significant milestone in the partnership between India and the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Scheduled to take place in Rajasthan from January 2 to January 15, this joint manoeuvre aims to enhance interoperability through the exchange of knowledge and best practices, particularly in urban operations.

The Indian Army’s Announcement

Announcing the exercise on its official handle on X, the Indian Army expressed enthusiasm about the inaugural edition of Joint Military Exercise Desert Cyclone. The event, spanning two weeks, is designed to facilitate learning and sharing best practices in urban operations. The exercise seeks to strengthen the ties between the Indian and UAE armed forces.

Historical Bonds and Collaborative Foundations

The robust friendship between India and the UAE is deeply rooted in enduring cultural, religious, and economic interactions that span millennia. The Ministry of External Affairs highlights potential areas of bilateral cooperation, with a focus on the production and development of defence equipment, joint armed forces exercises, information sharing on strategy and doctrines, and technical cooperation in various defence domains, including Intermediate Jet Trainer development.

Recent Advancements in Defence Collaboration

In recent times, the collaboration in defence between India and the UAE has witnessed significant enhancement. The cooperation extends to various aspects, including defence training, the supply of defence inventory, and the implementation of regular exchange programs. One notable milestone in this collaboration was the inaugural India-UAE Joint Air Forces exercise held in September 2008 at the Al-Dhafra base in Abu Dhabi.

India’s Participation in International Defence Exhibition

India’s active participation in the biennial International Defence Exhibition (IDEX) held in Abu Dhabi further underscores the commitment of both nations to fostering strong defence ties. This platform provides an opportunity for India to showcase its technological advancements in the defence sector and explore avenues for collaboration with the UAE and other global partners.

Future Prospects and Continued Collaboration

As ‘Desert Cyclone 2024’ unfolds in the deserts of Rajasthan, it is expected to pave the way for deeper collaboration between India and the UAE in the realm of defence. The joint exercise serves as a testament to the commitment of both nations to strengthen their military partnership, enhance interoperability, and contribute to regional and global security.

Important Questions Related to Exams

1. What is the primary objective of ‘Desert Cyclone 2024’ joint manoeuvres?
a) Air superiority
b) Naval operations
c) Boosting interoperability through the exchange of knowledge in urban operations

2. Where will ‘Desert Cyclone 2024’ be conducted?
a) Gujarat
b) Rajasthan
c) Maharashtra

3. In which city was the inaugural India-UAE Joint Air Forces exercise held in 2008?
a) Mumbai
b) New Delhi
c) Abu Dhabi

Please provide your answers in the comments section.