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The first-ever joint military exercise between India and the United Arab Emirates (UAE), known as ‘Desert Cyclone 2024,’ is all set to begin on January 2. This exercise holds great significance as it marks a major milestone in the strategic partnership between the two nations. Taking place in the arid terrains of Rajasthan, specifically the vast Thar Desert, the training exercises will run from January 2 to January 15.
The primary objective of ‘Desert Cyclone 2024’ is to enhance interoperability and facilitate the exchange of best practices in Urban Operations, as stated by the Indian Army. The Additional Directorate General of Public Information (ADGPI) of the Indian Army mentioned in a social media post, “The inaugural edition of Joint Military Exercise Desert Cyclone, between India and UAE, will be conducted from 02 Jan to 15 Jan 2024 in Rajasthan. The exercise aims to enhance interoperability by learning & sharing best practices in Urban Operations.”
The Ministry of External Affairs has identified several potential areas of bilateral cooperation in the defence sector. These include the production and development of defence equipment, joint exercises of armed forces (with a focus on naval exercises), sharing of strategic information and doctrines, and technical collaboration in the field of Intermediate Jet Trainers, among others.
In recent times, defence collaboration between India and the UAE has witnessed significant growth, particularly in defence training, the supply of defence inventory, and the implementation of regular exchange programs. A notable milestone in this cooperation was the inaugural India-UAE Joint Air Forces exercise, which took place in September 2008 at the Al-Dhafra base in Abu Dhabi.
India has continuously taken part in the biennial International Defence Exhibition (IDEX) held in Abu Dhabi, further solidifying the defence ties between the two nations.
Historical Context
India and the UAE established diplomatic relations in 1972, with the UAE opening its Embassy in Delhi and India opening its Embassy in Abu Dhabi in 1973. The defence interaction between India and UAE has been steadily growing alongside other aspects of the bilateral relationship. There have been regular exchanges at both high-level and functional levels between the two countries. The navies of both nations have frequently made port calls to enhance bilateral defence cooperation.
This development highlights the dedication of both countries to strengthening their strategic partnership and improving their defence capabilities. As the investigation progresses, the city remains on high alert, prepared to address any potential risks.
Exercise #DesertCyclone_2024
The Inaugural edition of Joint Military Exercise #DesertCyclone, between #India & #UAE, will be conducted from 02 Jan to 15 Jan 2024 in #Rajasthan. The exercise aims to enhance interoperability by learning & sharing best practices in Urban… pic.twitter.com/KraawpUQrl
— ADG PI – INDIAN ARMY (@adgpi) December 31, 2023