India-UAE joint military exercise begins in Uttarakhand; focus on mountain warfare

A joint military exercise involving troops of India and the United Arab Emirates began in Uttarakhand on Monday (October 5, 2026) to improve interoperability, mutual understanding and cooperation with a focus on mountain warfare.

A total of 92 personnel are participating in “Exercise Mountain Guardian” with equal representation from both armies. The Indian Army contingent consists of troops from the Bhairav ​​Battalion, while the UAE Army contingent has troops from the Mountain Infantry Battalion, the Ministry of Defense said.

“Female officers and combatants from both armies are also participating in the exercise across specialized roles,” the statement said.

A joint India-UAE military exercise has begun at the Foreign Training Hub, Chaubatia, Uttarakhand.

The exercise, which runs from October 5 to 18, aims to improve interoperability, mutual understanding and cooperation with a focus on mountain warfare, she said.

During the exercise, Soldiers will conduct joint planning, tactical exercises, gunnery practice, surveillance, drone operations, physical endurance training, rock climbing, obstacle training and integrated field exercises.

“The training will also include technology-enabled operations and the exchange of tactics, techniques and procedures relevant to operations in challenging mountain terrain,” it said.

Exercise Mountain Guardian 2026 will provide an opportunity for both armies to exchange expertise, enhance tactical skills and exchange best practices in operational procedures. It will further enhance military cooperation between India and the UAE and strengthen the bonds of friendship and trust between the two nations, the ministry said.

Published – 6 Oct 2026 01:36 IST