What happened:
On December 30, 2025, the second edition of the joint military exercise Desert Cyclone between the Indian Army and the UAE Land Forces concluded at Al-Hamra Training City in Abu Dhabi. Conducted from December 18–30, the exercise involved Indian Mechanised Infantry troops and the UAE’s 53 Mechanised Infantry Battalion, focusing on urban operations, counter-terrorism, and UN-mandated sub-conventional missions.
Why it matters to India:
The exercise strengthens India–UAE defence cooperation, enhances interoperability between the two forces, and reinforces India’s growing security partnership in West Asia, contributing to regional stability and readiness for multinational operations.