India, Uzbekistan begin 7th edition of Exercise Dustlik from April 13

The 7th edition of the joint military exercise between the India and Uzbekistan ‘Dustlik’ set begins from April 13th to April 25, 2026. The exercise is to be held in Uzbekistan and it focuses on to enhancing the cooperation, interoperability and joint operational capabilities. As the troops from both nations participates this drill will highlight the growing strategic engagement between India and Central Asia.

Where and How the Exercise is Being Conducted

The military drill will be taking place at the Gurumsaray Field Training Area in the Namangan region of Uzbekistan. It is designed to simulate the real-world combat scenarios and particularly in the semi-mountainous terrain because it is crucial for the modern warfare preparedness.

India has sent the contingent of around 60 personnel which includes the,

• 45 soldiers from the Indian Army and mainly from the Mahar Regiment
• 15 personnel from the Indian Air Force

Also Uzbekistan has also deployed troops from its Army and Air Force.

Key Objectives of Exercise Dustlik 2026

The primary aim of the exercise is to enhance the joint operational readiness and strengthen defense cooperation between the two nations.

Major Focus Areas

• Conducting the joint counter-terrorism operations
• Improve the coordination in semi-mountain warfare
• Share the best practices in tactics and procedure
• Also enhancing the command and control mechanisms

Operational Activities and Tactical Drills

The participating troops will also engage in the wide range of activities which are designed to simulate combat situations.

Key Operations Include The,

• The land navigation and reconnaissance missions
• Also to strike operations on enemy bases
• Seizure of the enemy-held territories
• And the neutralization of the unlawful armed groups

What Makes ‘Dustlik’ Exercise Unique

“Dustlik” which means that “friendship” and it is an annual joint exercise which conducted alternately in India and Uzbekistan.

• The previous edition was held in Aundh, Pune (India) in the year 2025.
• This year it will mark the 7th edition and shows the continuity in defense collaboration

Question

The first edition of Dustlik exercise was conducted in which year?

A. 2021
B. 2019
C. 2018
D. 2020