New Delhi, Dec 17 (NationPress) In a significant move to deepen military and strategic relations, an Indian Army contingent has left for the United Arab Emirates (UAE) to engage in the second iteration of the joint military Exercise ‘Desert Cyclone-II', set to occur in Abu Dhabi from December 18 to 30, according to an official announcement made on Wednesday.

The Ministry of Defence stated that the Indian contingent consists of 45 personnel, primarily drawn from a battalion of the Mechanised Infantry Regiment.

The UAE’s Land Forces will contribute a contingent of similar size, represented by the 53 Mechanised Infantry Battalion.

The primary objective of the exercise is to enhance interoperability and promote defence collaboration between the Indian Army and the UAE Land Forces through joint training in an urban setting, focusing on sub-conventional operations under a United Nations mandate. This will enable both forces to collaborate effectively in peacekeeping, counter-terrorism, and stability operations, as stated by the Defence Ministry.

Over the next two weeks, troops from both nations will engage in comprehensive training that encompasses a variety of tactical drills, including operations in built-up areas, heliborne operations, and meticulous mission planning. Furthermore, the integration of UAS and counter-UAS techniques will be implemented for operations in urban environments.

Following the successful visit of the UAE Land Forces' Commander, Maj Gen Yousef Maayouf Saeed Al Hallami, on October 27-28, and the Commander of the UAE Presidential Guard from December 15-19, Exercise ‘Desert Cyclone-II' aims to further reinforce bilateral defence cooperation between India and the UAE.

Maj Gen Hallami’s visit included key interactions between senior leaders and officials from both nations, solidifying the groundwork for enhanced military cooperation, exchange, and collaboration in areas of strategic and defence interests.

During his visit, he engaged in fruitful discussions with his Indian counterpart, Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi.

The execution of ‘Desert Cyclone-II' highlights the growing strategic partnership and military diplomacy between India and the UAE, reaffirming the mutual commitment of both countries to regional peace, security, and stability.

This exercise will further strengthen professional relationships between the two armies, promote a mutual understanding of tactics, techniques, and procedures, and contribute to the development of interoperable capabilities.