New Delhi: India and the UAE have begun a joint military exercise in Uttarakhand focused on mountain warfare, with troops from both countries taking part in tactical training and field operations.
The exercise, Mountain Guardian 2026, is being conducted from October 5 to 18 at the Foreign Training Node in Chaubatia, Uttarakhand, the Indian Defence Ministry said.
A total of 92 personnel, with equal representation from the two armies, are participating in the exercise. The Indian Army contingent comprises troops from a Bhairav Battalion, while the UAE Army is represented by personnel from a Mountain Infantry Battalion.
Women officers and combatants from both armies are also participating in specialist roles during the exercise.The training program includes joint planning, tactical drills, firing practices, surveillance, drone operations, physical endurance training, rock climbing, obstacle training and integrated field exercises.
Exercise #MountainGuardian 2026
The Opening Ceremony of the 3rd edition of Joint Military Exercise #MountainGuardian 2026 between the #IndianArmy and #UAE Land Forces was held today at the Foreign Training Node, Chaubatia, Uttarakhand.
The two-week exercise scheduled to be held from 05 to 18 Oct 2026, will focus on joint planning, tactical drills, handling of equipment and integrated field exercises leveraging modern technology.
The exercise will further strengthen interoperability between the two Armies in sub-conventional operations and reinforce the growing India-UAE defence partnership.
#IndiaUAEFriendship 🇮🇳🤝🇦🇪
#MilitaryDiplomacy
@MEAIndia
@DefenceMinIndia
@SpokespersonMoD
@IndembAbuDhabi
@modgovae
@UAEembassyIndia— ADG PI – INDIAN ARMY (@adgpi) October 5, 2026
The exercise will also cover technology-enabled operations and facilitate the exchange of tactics, techniques and procedures relevant to operations in challenging mountainous terrain.
According to the ministry, the exercise will provide both armies with an opportunity to exchange professional experience, improve tactical proficiency and share best practices in operational procedures.
The exercise is also aimed at strengthening military cooperation between India and the UAE and reinforcing the relationship between the two countries through greater interoperability and mutual understanding.
