Subject: Current Affairs, IR

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Exercise Desert Cyclone-II

 

Context: Exercise Desert Cyclone-II, between India and UAE defence Forces concluded on 30 December

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1. Bilateral Scope: This is the second edition of the joint military exercise between the Indian Army and the UAE Land Forces. The inaugural edition was held in Rajasthan in 2024, reflecting a rapid increase in the "Comprehensive Strategic Partnership" between the two nations.

    

2. Specialized Focus (Urban Warfare): The primary theme was FIBUA (Fighting in Built-Up Areas). Training emphasized tactical drills in urban settings, including room intervention, marking and clearing buildings, and hostage rescue, which are critical for modern asymmetric conflicts.

    

3. UN-Mandated Operations: The drills were specifically modeled under a United Nations mandate for sub-conventional operations. This prepares both armies for joint roles in international peacekeeping missions and counter-terrorism stability tasks.

    

4. Technological Integration: A standout feature of this edition was the integration of Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) and counter-UAS techniques. This reflects the modern reality of "drone warfare" in urban combat, focusing on reconnaissance and neutralizing small hostile drones.

    

5. Participating Units:

   • India: Represented by a contingent of 45 personnel, primarily from the Mechanised Infantry Regiment.

   • UAE: Represented by the 53 Mechanised Infantry Battalion.

   • Strategic Outcome: The exercise aligns with India’s “Act West” policy, positioning India as a net security provider and a reliable defense partner in the Gulf region