India-Uzbekistan Joint Military Exercise DUSTLIK-VI Begins at Aundh, Pune

The 6th edition of Exercise DUSTLIK, a bilateral joint military drill between India and Uzbekistan, commenced on April 16, 2025, at the Foreign Training Node, Aundh, Pune. The exercise, which will run until April 28, 2025, aims to strengthen bilateral military cooperation, develop joint tactical interoperability, and enhance coordination between the armed forces of both nations. DUSTLIK is held alternately in India and Uzbekistan, with the previous edition hosted in Termez District, Uzbekistan, in April 2024.

Key Highlights of Exercise DUSTLIK-VI (2025)

Basic Details

• Name of Exercise: DUSTLIK-VI (6th edition)
• Location: Foreign Training Node, Aundh, Pune, Maharashtra, India
• Dates: April 16–28, 2025
• Participating Countries: India and Uzbekistan
• Frequency: Annual; alternates between both countries

Participating Units

• Indian Contingent: 60 personnel, primarily from the JAT Regiment and Indian Air Force
• Uzbekistan Contingent: Troops from the Uzbekistan Army

Exercise Theme & Objectives

• Main Theme: Joint Multi-Domain Sub-Conventional Operations in Semi-Urban Scenario
• Scenario: Terrorist attack involving seizure of a defined territory

Objectives

• Enhance interoperability in sub-conventional warfare
• Conduct counter-terrorist operations (CT Ops)
• Establishment of a Joint Operations Centre (JOC) at the battalion level
• Execution of raids, search-and-destroy missions, and population control measures
• Use of air power, including helicopters and drones
• Secure and use a helipad for operations
• Conduct Special Heliborne Operations (SHBO) and Small Team Insertion & Extraction (STIE)
• Implement Counter-Unmanned Aerial System (UAS) measures
• Ensure Air Force logistical support in hostile zones

Use of Technology & Assets

• Drones: For surveillance and situational awareness
• Helicopters: Reconnaissance, insertion/extraction, fire support
• Counter-UAS Tech: To neutralize enemy drone threats

Significance

• Exchange of Tactics, Techniques, and Procedures (TTPs)
• Promote joint operational capabilities
• Strengthen bilateral defence cooperation
• Develop trust and camaraderie between both forces