Indian Army Departs for Desert Cyclone II Exercise in UAE

An Indian Army contingent left for the United Arab Emirates on December 17, 2025, to take part in the second edition of the India-UAE Joint Military Exercise, Desert Cyclone II. The event runs from December 18 to 30, 2025, in Abu Dhabi.

Contingent Composition

The Indian side includes 45 personnel mainly from a Mechanised Infantry Regiment battalion. The UAE Land Forces will field a similar-sized group from its 53 Mechanised Infantry Battalion.

Exercise Objectives

This joint drill aims to boost interoperability and deepen defence ties between the Indian Army and UAE Land Forces. It emphasizes sub-conventional operations in urban settings under a UN mandate.

Training Focus

Participants will train for integrated peacekeeping, counter-terrorism, and stability missions, allowing both armies to refine joint tactics in realistic scenarios.