APRIL 16: The 6th edition of the India-Uzbekistan Joint Military Exercise DUSTLIK-VI began today at the Foreign Training Node in Aundh, Pune. Scheduled to run, the exercise aims to enhance mutual cooperation, understanding, and interoperability between the armed forces of the two friendly nations.
The Indian Army contingent, comprising 60 personnel, is being represented by a battalion of the JAT Regiment, along with support from the Indian Air Force (IAF). On the other side, the Uzbekistan contingent includes troops from the Uzbekistan Army. DUSTLIK is an annual bilateral military exercise conducted alternately in India and Uzbekistan, with the last edition held in Termez District, Uzbekistan in April 2024.
This year’s edition is focused on the theme of Joint Multi-Domain Sub-Conventional Operations in a Semi-Urban Scenario. The exercise will simulate a counter-terrorism operation in which both contingents respond to a situation involving the capture of a designated territory by hostile elements. The primary objective is to train forces in coordinated responses to terrorism-related threats, while building a robust framework for future joint operations.
Key aspects of the exercise include the establishment of a Joint Operations Centre at the battalion level, conducting population control measures, search-and-destroy raids, and firepower coordination including air support to neutralize threats. Special forces from both armies will secure a helipad for use as a base for subsequent missions. The IAF will play a crucial role in providing logistical support and deploying helicopters for reconnaissance, observation, and Special Heliborne Operations (SHBO). Other complex maneuvers like Small Team Insertion and Extraction (STIE) will also be practiced.
Modern warfare elements such as the use of drones, counter-UAS (Unmanned Aerial Systems) measures, and integration of air and ground operations will be a major highlight. This will allow both armies to adapt to evolving technologies and asymmetric threats in combat environments.
Exercise DUSTLIK-VI not only serves as a platform for knowledge exchange and professional interaction, but also strengthens the defence cooperation and strategic partnership between India and Uzbekistan. It promotes tactical interoperability, fosters camaraderie, and reinforces the commitment of both nations toward regional peace and security.
