India-Uzbekistan Joint Military Exercise ‘Dustlik’ 7th Edition Concludes in Uzbekistan

The 7th edition of the India-Uzbekistan Joint Military Exercise ‘Dustlik’ was successfully concluded at the Namangan in Uzbekistan. This exercise have brought together the troops from both nations to enhance the joint operational capabilities and specially in counter-terrorism scenarios. With the equal participation from the both sides this drill focused was on to improving the coordination, tactical skills and the preparedness in the challenging terrains.

Exercise Dustlik 2026: Key Highlights

This joint exercise saw the active participation from both countries and reflects the strong military collaboration.

For the exercise the total 120 personnel have participated as 60 from each country.

Indian contingent included the  45 personnel from the Indian Army, 15 personnel from the Indian Air Force.

Also the Uzbekistan was represented by its Army and Air Force personnel.

The exercise was conducted in Namangan, Uzbekistan.

The equal participation of the both nations demonstrates the mutual commitment to strengthening defense ties.

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

Importance for India-Uzbekistan Relations

The exercise will reflects the deepening the strategic relationship between India and Uzbekistan.

The defense cooperation is becoming the important pillar of bilateral ties.

For India the Central Asia holds strategic importance due to  the regional security concerns, the counter-terrorism cooperation and the from connectivity side and the geopolitical interests.

Regular joint exercises like the Dustlik will help to build the trust, interoperability and the long-term partnerships.

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

Which exercise involves joint military training between India and Singapore?

A) VARUNA
B) SIMBEX
C) INDRA
D) AUSINDEX