### Strengthening Defense Ties: India and UAE Conduct Joint Military Exercise Desert Cyclone-II The Indian and UAE armed forces are currently engaged in Exercise Desert Cyclone-II, a joint military exercise taking place in Al Hamra, UAE, from December 18 to December 30, 2025. This exercise aims to enhance urban warfare capabilities and interoperability between the two nations' military forces. The first edition of this exercise was held in 2024, and the current iteration marks a significant step in deepening the strategic partnership and military diplomacy between India and the UAE. The exercise involves rigorous training in urban combat scenarios, focusing on essential skills such as building clearing, IED awareness, and casualty evacuation, thereby fostering a collaborative defense environment [https://thelucknowtribune.org/desert-cyclone-ii-indian-and-uae-armies-train-for-urban-warfare-in-al-hamra-desert][https://www.indianeconomicobserver.com/news/exercise-desert-cyclone-ii-progresses-with-intensive-joint-urban-operations-training-at-al-hamra20251222180244]. ### Structure of the Joint Military Exercise 1. **Overview of Exercise Desert Cyclone-II** - Conducted from December 18 to December 30, 2025, in Al Hamra, UAE. - Involves troops from the Indian Army and UAE Land Forces. - Focuses on urban warfare and enhancing operational synergy [https://currentaffairs.adda247.com/exercise-desert-cyclone-ii-begins-india-u-a-e-joint-military-exercise][https://www.moneycontrol.com/news/india/indian-army-contingent-reaches-abu-dhabi-for-india-uae-joint-military-exercise-desert-cyclone-ii-13731024.html]. 2. **Training Components** - Intensive training includes classroom instruction and field exercises. - Key areas of focus: building clearing, IED awareness, casualty evacuation, and mission planning [https://www.indianeconomicobserver.com/news/exercise-desert-cyclone-ii-progresses-with-intensive-joint-urban-operations-training-at-al-hamra20251222180244]. 3. **Strategic Importance** - Aims to enhance interoperability and develop common operating procedures. - Strengthens defense cooperation and military ties between India and the UAE [https://www.devdiscourse.com/article/politics/3733602-desert-cyclone-ii-bridging-military-ties-between-india-and-uae][https://www.devdiscourse.com/article/international/3733929-india-uae-strengthen-military-ties-with-desert-cyclone-ii]. ### Evidence of Enhanced Military Collaboration - **Personnel Involved**: The Indian contingent consists of 45 personnel from the Mechanised Infantry Regiment, while the UAE is represented by an equal number from the 53 Mechanised Infantry Battalion [https://www.devdiscourse.com/article/international/3733929-india-uae-strengthen-military-ties-with-desert-cyclone-ii]. - **Training Focus**: The exercise emphasizes urban combat fundamentals, which are critical for modern warfare scenarios [https://www.indianeconomicobserver.com/news/exercise-desert-cyclone-ii-progresses-with-intensive-joint-urban-operations-training-at-al-hamra20251222180244]. - **Timeline**: The exercise is set to run for nearly two weeks, showcasing a commitment to sustained military collaboration [https://www.moneycontrol.com/news/india/indian-army-contingent-reaches-abu-dhabi-for-india-uae-joint-military-exercise-desert-cyclone-ii-13731024.html]. ### Conclusion: A Step Forward in Defense Cooperation In summary, Exercise Desert Cyclone-II represents a significant advancement in military collaboration between India and the UAE. The exercise is structured to enhance urban warfare capabilities and operational interoperability, which are crucial in today's complex security environment. 1. **Joint Training**: The exercise includes rigorous training in urban combat, focusing on essential skills for modern warfare. 2. **Strategic Partnership**: It underscores the deepening defense ties and military diplomacy between the two nations. 3. **Future Implications**: The successful execution of this exercise may pave the way for further joint operations and enhanced military cooperation in the future. This initiative not only strengthens bilateral relations but also contributes to regional stability and security [https://thelucknowtribune.org/desert-cyclone-ii-indian-and-uae-armies-train-for-urban-warfare-in-al-hamra-desert][https://www.devdiscourse.com/article/politics/3733602-desert-cyclone-ii-bridging-military-ties-between-india-and-uae].