The third edition of the joint training exercise, EX-DUSTLIK, between India and Uzbekistan is currently underway. The operation, launched on the 22nd of March, will continue until the end of the month in Yangiarik, Uzbekistan. This collaborative military endeavor represents a significant development for both nations, particularly in regards to their strategic relationship and shared security concerns.
Understanding the DUSTLIK Exercise
The core focus of the ongoing DUSTLIK exercise is to hone counter-terrorism techniques in semi-urban settings, all under the umbrella of a United Nations mandate. The Grenadiers battalion, one of the Indian Army’s most distinguished battalions, has been assigned to execute the exercise.
This program is primarily designed to facilitate the sharing of tactical-level drills and the exchange of best practices. Its broader objective, however, is to cultivate understanding, cooperation, and interoperability between the two armies. Notably, the previous iteration of DUSTLIK was conducted in Ranikhet, Uttarakhand, in March 2021.
The Importance of Uzbekistan to India
Owing to its geographical location, Uzbekistan finds itself at the heart of India’s security and connectivity strategies related to the Central Asian Region and Iran. Additionally, due to the current turmoil in Afghanistan, the nation serves as an alternate point of access for India.
Security issues emerging from the conflict in Afghanistan pose considerable impediments to India’s involvement in Central Asia. As such, maintaining a strong and cooperative relationship with Uzbekistan emerges as a tactical necessity for India.
India’s Joint Military Exercises with Other Countries
India’s efforts to strengthen its international military relationships are not limited to Uzbekistan. In fact, the country regularly engages in similar military exercises with numerous other countries.
While these alliances serve to enhance India’s defense capabilities and strategic competencies, they also serve as diplomatic tools, fostering international understanding and mutual respect. Official sources from the Press Information Bureau have confirmed this detailed information about India’s global military collaborations.
The EX-DUSTLIK training exercise represents a pivotal step towards increased interoperability between the Indian and Uzbekistan armies. Moreover, it affirms India’s commitment to establishing sturdy defense relationships with nations across the globe.
