New Delhi, Oct 5 (NVI): The India-UAE joint military exercise ‘Mountain Guardian 2026’ commenced on Monday at Chaubatia in Uttarakhand, with troops from both countries focusing on enhancing interoperability and cooperation in mountain warfare, the Defence Ministry said.
The exercise, being conducted at the Foreign Training Node, Chaubatia, from October 5 to 18, will provide an opportunity to the participating troops to exchange operational experience, tactics and best practices in mountainous terrain, it said.
A total of 92 personnel, with equal representation from the Indian and UAE armies, are participating in the exercise.
The Indian Army contingent comprises troops from a Bhairav Battalion, while the UAE side is represented by personnel from a Mountain Infantry Battalion.
Women officers and combatants from both armies are also taking part in the exercise in various specialist roles, the ministry said.
The joint training will include tactical drills, joint planning, firing practices, establishment of surveillance grids, drone operations and integrated field exercises.
The troops will also undergo physical endurance training, rock climbing and obstacle training as part of the exercise.
The exercise will further focus on technology-enabled operations and facilitate the exchange of tactics, techniques and procedures for operations in challenging mountainous terrain.
“Exercise Mountain Guardian 2026 will provide an opportunity for both armies to exchange professional experience, enhance tactical proficiency and exchange best practices in operational procedures,” the ministry said.
The exercise is aimed at further strengthening military-to-military cooperation between India and the UAE and reinforcing the bonds of friendship and trust between the two countries.—(NVI)
