Joint Military Exercise 'Desert Cyclone 2024': Strengthening India-UAE Defence Partnership

Introduction to 'Desert Cyclone 2024'

- The 'Desert Cyclone 2024' is a distinguished military exercise between India and the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

- It is scheduled to commence on January 2 and conclude on 15th of the same month.

- The exercise will primarily be held in Rajasthan, a state in India known for its vast desert landscape, providing an ideal training ground for such operations.

Objectives of the Military Exercise

- The primary goal of this exercise is to bolster interoperability between the Indian and UAE armed forces.

- It encourages the exchange of knowledge, experience, and best practices in different facets of urban warfare.

- The Indian Army, through its official handle, announced this exercise, expressing its enthusiasm for the first edition of the Joint Military Exercise Desert Cyclone.

Expected Outcomes and Significance

- The 'Desert Cyclone 2024' exercise is instrumental in fostering a closer relationship between India and the UAE in the defence sector.

- It is expected to aid in strengthening their military partnership and facilitating effective coordination during war times and peacekeeping missions.

- The joint military exercise will contribute to enhancing regional and global security by ensuring both countries are well-equipped and thoroughly trained.

- Additionally, this exercise underscores the growing prominence of the India-UAE strategic partnership and their willingness to jointly counter security threats.

A Glimpse into the Past

- Historically, India and UAE have shared warm diplomatic relations and mutual respect.

- Their ties have been characterised by regular high-level visits, and they have gradually deepened their cooperation across a range of fields- from trade and economy to security and defence.

- This military exercise is yet another testament to the growing strength of the India-UAE strategic partnership.

Geographical and Strategic Importance

- Geographically, the UAE occupies a strategic position on the Arabian Peninsula, with access to the Persian Gulf and the Indian Ocean, offering it marine accessibility.

- For India, having a stronger defence relationship with the UAE not only aids in enhancing its strategic outreach in the Middle East but also in maintaining security in the Indian Ocean Region.

In summary, the forthcoming 'Desert Cyclone 2024' joint military exercise between India and the UAE reflects a growing strategic partnership that is geared towards promoting regional and international security.