Joint Military Exercise Between India and Kyrgyzstan Underway in Tokmok
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Synopsis
The Indian Army and Kyrgyzstan military are engaged in a collaborative exercise focused on urban warfare, counter-terrorism, and precision sniping, aimed at enhancing mutual cooperation and operational capabilities between the two forces.
Key Takeaways
- Ongoing joint military exercise between India and Kyrgyzstan.
- Focus on urban warfare, counter-terrorism, and precision sniping.
- Strengthening defense ties and addressing international terrorism concerns.
- Cultural exchanges including the celebration of Nowruz.
- Involvement of elite special forces from both countries.
New Delhi, March 16 (NationPress) The Indian Army and Kyrgyzstan military are currently collaborating on best practices in urban warfare scenarios, counter-terrorism tactics, and precision sniping as part of an ongoing joint exercise, the Army announced on Sunday.
The Indian Army contingent, which includes troops from the elite Parachute Regiment, departed for Kyrgyzstan on March 9 to participate in the 12th edition of the India-Kyrgyzstan Joint Special Forces Exercise Khanjar.
This joint exercise is taking place in the Central Asian nation from March 10 to March 23, as confirmed by an official.
The Joint Military Exercise #Khanjar-XII, involving special forces from India and Kyrgyzstan, is in full progress at Tokmok, Kyrgyzstan, according to a social media update from an Indian Army spokesperson.
“This exercise aims to enhance mutual cooperation, bolster joint operational capabilities, and promote camaraderie between the IndianArmy and the KyrgyzArmy,” the post stated on Sunday.
The initiative seeks to strengthen defense ties while addressing shared concerns regarding international terrorism and extremism, reaffirming both nations' commitment to fostering peace, stability, and security in the region.
Since its inception in 2011, Khanjar has developed into an annual training event, with alternating venues between India and Kyrgyzstan, reflecting the growing strategic partnership. The previous iteration of this exercise took place in India in January 2024, as per an official statement.
The Indian contingent includes troops from The Parachute Regiment (Special Forces), while the Kyrgyzstan contingent is represented by the Scorpion Brigade, according to a statement.
The main goal of the exercise is to share experiences and best practices in counter-terrorism and special forces operations in both urban and mountainous high-altitude terrains, according to official sources.
The exercise will also emphasize the development of advanced special forces skills, including sniping, complex building interventions, and mountain craft.
Apart from the intensive training, the exercise will include vibrant cultural exchanges, featuring the celebration of the Central Asian festival of Nowruz. This interaction is expected to further solidify the friendship between the two nations, as noted in the statement.
