JUNE 13: The 17th edition of the Indo-Mongolian Joint Military Exercise NOMADIC ELEPHANT concluded today in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia. The closing ceremony was graced by India’s Defence Secretary Shri Rajesh Kumar Singh, alongside Lieutenant General Pushpendra Singh, Director General Operational Logistics and Strategic Movement.
This two-week bilateral exercise witnessed the active participation of 45 personnel from the Indian Army, predominantly from a battalion of the ARUNACHAL SCOUTS. The training focused on enhancing joint operational capabilities in semi-conventional warfare, particularly in semi-urban and mountainous environments, under the framework of United Nations peacekeeping operations.
During the ceremony, the Defence Secretary praised the commitment, discipline, and high level of professionalism exhibited by the Indian soldiers. He emphasized that Exercise NOMADIC ELEPHANT stands as a symbol of the deep-rooted friendship, mutual respect, and historical cultural linkages between India and Mongolia.
He further stated that such collaborative efforts not only refine military interoperability but also reinforce India’s stature as a key contributor to regional and global peace. The Defence Secretary highlighted the strategic significance of India’s growing defence ties with Mongolia, noting that initiatives like NOMADIC ELEPHANT serve as a vital platform for military cooperation and regional security dialogue.
In continuation of his visit, Shri Rajesh Kumar Singh is scheduled to attend the opening ceremony of the Multinational Joint Military Exercise KHAAN QUEST 2025 tomorrow at the same venue. The Indian Army will also take part in this major international drill, which will run from June 14 to 28, 2025. KHAAN QUEST aims to promote multilateral peacekeeping capabilities and foster military partnerships across participating nations.
The successful conduct of both NOMADIC ELEPHANT and the upcoming KHAAN QUEST highlights India’s commitment to defence diplomacy and peacekeeping. These engagements also reaffirm the strategic importance of India’s partnership with Mongolia in promoting peace, security, and military preparedness in the region.
