India and Uzbekistan have commenced the 7th edition of the joint military exercise ‘Dustlik’ in April 2026, marking another significant step in strengthening bilateral defence cooperation. The exercise is being conducted at the Gurumsaray Field Training Area in Namangan, Uzbekistan, and will continue until April 25, 2026.
This annual exercise reflects the growing strategic partnership between the two nations and highlights their shared commitment to enhancing military capabilities and regional security.
The joint military drill involves around 60 personnel from each side, including troops from the Indian Army and Indian Air Force, alongside their Uzbek counterparts.
The Indian contingent primarily includes soldiers from the Mahar Regiment, known for its operational expertise. The participation of both army and air force personnel demonstrates the integrated approach of modern military exercises.
The primary aim of Exercise Dustlik is to enhance cooperation and interoperability between the armed forces of India and Uzbekistan. The exercise focuses on improving the ability of both sides to conduct joint operations, particularly in semi-mountainous terrain.
Key objectives include:
The exercise includes a wide range of military activities designed to simulate real combat scenarios. These include:
The training will culminate in a 48-hour validation exercise, which will test the effectiveness of joint operational planning and execution.
Exercise Dustlik plays a crucial role in enhancing defence diplomacy between India and Uzbekistan. It provides an opportunity for both countries to share best practices in tactics, techniques, and procedures.
The exercise also contributes to:
This development is highly relevant for candidates preparing for defence, UPSC, and other government exams. Questions related to joint military exercises, bilateral relations, and defence cooperation are frequently asked in exams.
Understanding Exercise Dustlik helps aspirants grasp:
Exercise Dustlik highlights India’s growing engagement with Central Asian countries under its broader foreign policy initiatives. Strengthening ties with Uzbekistan enhances India’s presence in the region and supports its geopolitical interests.
For exam preparation, this topic connects with:
This news is important because it reflects ongoing defence collaborations, which are a regular feature in current affairs. Aspirants must track such exercises as they are often asked in both prelims and mains examinations.
Exercise Dustlik is an annual bilateral military exercise conducted alternately in India and Uzbekistan. It began as part of efforts to strengthen defence cooperation between the two countries.
The previous edition (6th) was held in Aundh, Pune in April 2025, showcasing India’s hosting capabilities.
India and Uzbekistan share strong defence ties, including regular joint exercises, training programs, and strategic dialogues. Over the years, both nations have expanded cooperation in areas such as counter-terrorism, military training, and technology exchange.
Exercise Dustlik has emerged as a key pillar of this partnership, reinforcing mutual trust and operational coordination.
Exercise Dustlik is a joint military exercise between India and Uzbekistan aimed at improving cooperation, coordination, and interoperability between their armed forces.
The 7th edition of Exercise Dustlik was conducted in April 2026.
The exercise was held in Namangan, Uzbekistan, specifically at the Gurumsaray Field Training Area.
The Mahar Regiment represented the Indian Army in this exercise.
The main objective is to enhance joint operational capability, tactical coordination, and counter-terrorism skills.
It is conducted annually, alternating between India and Uzbekistan.
The exercise includes semi-mountain terrain warfare, counter-terrorism operations, and joint tactical drills.
It strengthens defence ties, regional security cooperation, and India’s strategic presence in Central Asia.
Only India and Uzbekistan participate in this bilateral exercise.
This topic is important for UPSC, SSC, Banking, Defence, Railways, and State PCS exams.
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