45 Indian Soldiers Participate in ‘Desert Cyclone-2’ Military Exercise in Abu Dhabi

New Delhi: The second joint military exercise between India and the United Arab Emirates (UAE), named Desert Cyclone-2, commenced today in Abu Dhabi. Scheduled to run from December 18 to 30, the exercise involves 45 Indian soldiers, primarily from the Mechanized Infantry Regiment, alongside 53 soldiers from the UAE’s Mechanized Infantry Battalion.

Training for Urban Warfare and Heliborne Operations

Over the two-week exercise, troops from both countries will conduct operations in constructed urban environments, practicing heliborne operations including helicopter insertion into simulated terrorist zones, as well as rescue and relief drills.

Strengthening Defence Cooperation

According to the Ministry of Defence, the primary objective of Desert Cyclone-2 is to enhance coordination and interoperability between the Indian Army and UAE Armed Forces through joint urban training. The exercise focuses on sub-conventional operations in line with United Nations directives, reinforcing the positive momentum created by recent high-level military visits between the two nations in October and December 2025.

Strategic Significance

Defense experts say that Desert Cyclone-2 underscores the growing strategic partnership and military diplomacy between India and the UAE. The exercise is expected to fortify bilateral defense cooperation, reaffirm both nations’ commitment to regional peace, security, and stability, and enhance professional ties, mutual understanding of tactical procedures, and interoperable capabilities.