The India-UAE Joint Military Exercise MOUNTAIN GUARDIAN 2026 commenced on 5 October 2026 at the Foreign Training Node, Chaubatia, Uttarakhand. The exercise will continue until 18 October 2026, with a focus on enhancing interoperability, mutual understanding and cooperation in mountain warfare.
A total of 92 personnel, with equal representation from both countries, are participating. The Indian Army contingent includes troops from a Bhairav Battalion, while the UAE contingent comprises personnel from a Mountain Infantry Battalion. Women officers and combatants from both armies are also taking part in specialist roles.
The exercise will feature joint planning, tactical drills, firing practices, surveillance-grid operations, drone operations, physical endurance training, rock climbing, obstacle training and integrated field exercises. It will also include technology-enabled operations and the exchange of tactics, techniques and procedures for operating in challenging mountainous terrain.
MOUNTAIN GUARDIAN 2026 provides both armies with an opportunity to share professional expertise, improve tactical proficiency and exchange best practices. The exercise is expected to further strengthen India-UAE military cooperation and deepen the bonds of friendship, trust and partnership between the two nations.
