Source: DD News
Subject: Security
Context: The seventh edition of the India-Uzbekistan joint military exercise, ‘Dustlik’, concluded on Friday with a final validation ceremony at the Gurumsaray Field Training Area in Uzbekistan.
About Exercise Dustlik:
What it is?
- Exercise Dustlik is an annual bilateral training event designed to strengthen military ties and tactical synergy between the Indian and Uzbek armed forces.
Host: The 2026 edition was hosted by Uzbekistan at the Gurumsaray Field Training Area in Namangam.
Nations Involved: India and Uzbekistan.
Aim:. It aims to establish a unified operational algorithm for command-and-control structures during the planning and execution of joint missions.
Key Features:
- Annual Rotation: The exercise is a yearly event conducted alternatively in India and Uzbekistan; the 2025 edition was held in Pune, India.
- Tactical Focus: Training includes joint planning, joint tactical drills, and special arms skills.
- Counter-Terrorism: A major component involves sharing best practices to neutralize unlawful armed groups.
- Physical Rigor: The curriculum emphasizes a high degree of physical fitness and operational synergy.
- Validation Exercise: The training culminates in a 48-hour validation phase to test tactical drills and joint special operations.
Significance:
- It improves the ability of both militaries to operate together effectively through shared tactics, techniques, and procedures.
- The exercise reinforces bilateral defense relations and military cooperation between the two friendly nations.
