The first time it was held at the Mahajan Field Firing Ranges in Rajasthan in January 2024

Exercise Desert Cyclone-II, a joint military drill between India and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) involving mechanised forces, is set to be conducted at Abu Dhabi from December 18 to 30.

This is the second edition of the exercise. The first time it was held at the Mahajan Field Firing Ranges in Rajasthan in January 2024.

The Indian contingent comprises 45 personnel, primarily from a battalion of the Mechanised Infantry Regiment. The UAE Land Forces contingent, of similar strength, will be represented by its 53 Mechanised Infantry Battalion.

The aim of the exercise is to enhance interoperability and foster defence cooperation between the Indian Army and the UAE Land Forces through joint training in an urban environment, with a focus on sub-conventional operations under a United Nations mandate, enabling both forces to operate together in peacekeeping, counter-terrorism and stability operations, a defence spokesperson said on Wednesday.

Over the next two weeks, troops from both countries will jointly train on a wide spectrum of tactical drills including fighting in built-up areas, heliborne operations and detailed mission planning.

In addition, the integration of Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) and counter-UAS techniques will be carried out for conduct of operations in built-up areas.

Building on the momentum of the successful visit of the Commander, UAE Land Forces, on 27-28 October 2025 and Commander UAE Presidential Guard on 15-19 December 2025, to India, Exercise Desert Cyclone–II will further strengthen bilateral defence cooperation between India and the UAE.

The conduct of the drill underscores the deepening strategic partnership and military diplomacy between India and the UAE, reaffirming the shared commitment of both nations to regional peace, security and stability.

The exercise will further cement professional bonds between the two armies, promote mutual understanding of tactics, techniques and procedures, and contribute to the development of interoperable capabilities, the spokesperson added.

The Indian Army contingent prior to departing for UAE. Pic: PIB