The Indian Army contingent departed for the 7th edition of Exercise DUSTLIK scheduled from 12 to 25 April 2026 at Gurumsaray Field Training Area, Namangan, Uzbekistan. The Indian contingent includes 60 personnel, comprising 45 from the MAHAR Regiment and 15 from the Indian Air Force. The Uzbekistan contingent consists of approximately 60 personnel from its Army and Air Force.
Exercise Overview and Location
Exercise DUSTLIK is an annual military exercise conducted alternately in India and Uzbekistan. The 2025 edition was held at Foreign Training Node, Aundh (Pune). The 2026 exercise will take place in semi-mountainous terrain at Gurumsaray, Namangan, focusing on joint operational capabilities.
Objectives and Training Focus
The exercise aims to enhance military cooperation and combined operational capabilities. Training includes joint planning, tactical drills, physical fitness, and special arms skills. Key operations practiced are land navigation, strike missions on enemy bases, and seizure of enemy-held areas.
Operational Coordination and Validation
A unified operational algorithm will be established between command-and-control structures of both contingents for joint operations. The exercise will culminate in a 48-hour validation exercise emphasising preparation and execution of joint special operations targeting unlawful armed groups.
Interoperability and Defence Cooperation
The exercise facilitates sharing of tactics, techniques, and procedures to strengthen interoperability and operational synergy. It promotes joint command and control coordination and develops camaraderie between the two militaries, enhancing bilateral defence relations.
What to Study for UPSC Exams?
- India-Central Asia Defence Relations
- Joint Military Exercises in India
- Command and Control Systems
- Counterinsurgency Operations
India-Central Asia Defence Relations
India’s defence ties with Central Asia began intensifying post-1991 after the Soviet Union’s dissolution. India has signed multiple agreements on military cooperation, training, and intelligence sharing with Central Asian states. Central Asia’s strategic location bridges South Asia, Russia, and China, making it vital for India’s security and energy interests.
Joint Military Exercises in India
India conducts joint exercises with over 40 countries, including the largest tri-service exercise “Yudh Abhyas” with the US. These exercises enhance interoperability and expose troops to diverse terrains and tactics. Some exercises focus on counterterrorism, while others emphasize high-altitude warfare or amphibious operations.
Command and Control Systems
Command and control (C2) systems integrate communication, decision-making, and operational execution in military units. Modern C2 employs network-centric warfare principles, using real-time data sharing and AI for faster decisions. India’s Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) is developing indigenous C2 platforms.
Counterinsurgency Operations
Counterinsurgency (COIN) involves military, political, and economic actions to defeat insurgents and address root causes. COIN tactics include intelligence gathering, population control, and psychological operations. India’s COIN experience spans decades, notably in Kashmir and Northeast India, combining military and civic approaches.
Last Modified: April 12, 2026