India and the United Arab Emirates continue to deepen their defence partnership with the second edition of the joint military exercise DESERT CYCLONE–II. The exercise reflects the growing strategic convergence between the two countries, particularly in security cooperation, military diplomacy, and joint preparedness for contemporary conflict scenarios.
What Is Exercise DESERT CYCLONE–II?
DESERT CYCLONE–II is the second edition of the India–UAE Joint Military Exercise being held at Abu Dhabi from 18 to 30 December 2025. An Indian Army contingent of 45 personnel, mainly from a battalion of the Mechanised Infantry Regiment, is participating alongside a similarly sized contingent from the UAE Land Forces, represented by the 53 Mechanised Infantry Battalion.
Focus on Urban and Sub-Conventional Operations
The exercise is designed around joint training in urban environments, with particular emphasis on sub-conventional operations under a United Nations mandate. Such operations are increasingly relevant for peacekeeping missions, counter-terrorism tasks, and stability operations in densely populated areas. Training under a UN framework also enhances the ability of both forces to operate together in multinational missions.
Key Training Components and Tactical Drills
Over nearly two weeks, troops from both countries will engage in a wide spectrum of tactical activities, including:
- Fighting in built-up areas and room intervention drills.
- Heliborne operations and rapid insertion techniques.
- Joint mission planning and execution.
- Integration of Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) and counter-UAS techniques in urban operations.
These elements reflect modern battlefield realities, where technology, mobility, and coordination are critical.
Building Interoperability Between Two Armies
A core objective of DESERT CYCLONE–II is to enhance interoperability between the Indian Army and the UAE Land Forces. By sharing tactics, techniques, and procedures, both sides gain practical insights into each other’s operational doctrines. This is essential for seamless coordination during joint or coalition deployments.
Exercise in the Context of Growing Defence Ties
The conduct of DESERT CYCLONE–II builds on recent high-level military engagements, including the visits of the Commander of UAE Land Forces and the Commander of the UAE Presidential Guard to India in late 2025. Such sustained interactions indicate a maturing defence relationship that goes beyond symbolism to operational cooperation.
Strategic Significance for Regional Security
The exercise underscores India and the UAE’s shared commitment to regional peace, security, and stability, particularly in West Asia and the wider Indian Ocean Region. Joint military exercises serve as confidence-building measures and signal both countries’ readiness to address common security challenges such as terrorism, instability, and hybrid threats.
What to Note for Prelims?
- Exercise DESERT CYCLONE–II is a joint India–UAE military exercise.
- Location: Abu Dhabi; Duration: 18–30 December 2025.
- Indian contingent: Mechanised Infantry Regiment.
- Focus areas: urban warfare, UN-mandated sub-conventional operations, UAS and counter-UAS.
What to Note for Mains?
- Role of joint military exercises in defence diplomacy.
- Importance of interoperability in multinational peacekeeping operations.
- India–UAE strategic partnership in regional security architecture.
- Relevance of urban warfare training in contemporary conflicts.
