The sixth edition of the annual joint military exercise Dustlik-VI between India and Uzbekistan commenced with great enthusiasm at the Foreign Training Node in Aundh, Pune, on April 16, 2025. Scheduled to continue until April 28, this exercise symbolizes the strengthening of defence ties and cooperative spirit between the two nations.
India is represented in this iteration by a battalion from the JAT Regiment, accompanied by 60 personnel and key members of the Indian Air Force. On the other side, the Uzbekistan contingent brings seasoned personnel from their national army, reflecting the commitment of both forces to the shared goals of learning, collaboration, and tactical proficiency. Dustlik-VI is part of a longstanding tradition, with the previous edition held in Termez District, Uzbekistan, in April 2024. This alternating arrangement highlights the mutual respect and equal partnership shared by the two countries.
The exercise’s theme focuses on joint multi-domain sub-conventional operations in a semi-urban scenario, particularly dealing with counter-terrorism strategies in situations involving the capture of defined territories. As part of the exercise, the participating forces will establish a Joint Operations Centre at the battalion level to carry out seamless joint operations. This includes executing counter-terrorism missions, which encompass population control measures, raids, search-and-destroy operations, and the deployment of firepower, including air assets, to neutralize terrorist threats. The forces will also practice securing a helipad using special forces from the Army and Air Force for subsequent operations.
The use of modern technologies plays a crucial role in this exercise. Drones and counter-unmanned aerial system measures will be deployed extensively to refine strategies in combating advanced aerial threats. Furthermore, the Indian Air Force will provide logistical support to sustain forces operating in hostile environments. Helicopters will be utilized for reconnaissance, observation, special heliborne operations, small team insertion and extraction missions, and other critical tasks designed to address the dynamic demands of sub-conventional warfare.
Dustlik-VI is a platform for both sides to exchange best practices and hone their tactics, techniques, and procedures in joint sub-conventional operations. It is not just a tactical exercise but also an opportunity to foster interoperability, camaraderie, and mutual trust between the two armed forces. The exercise is expected to elevate defence cooperation and further enhance the deep-rooted bilateral relations between India and Uzbekistan.
This joint endeavour reflects the growing strategic partnership between the two nations, built on a shared commitment to regional stability and peace. Dustlik-VI exemplifies the spirit of collaboration and preparedness that defines the armed forces of India and Uzbekistan, ensuring the ability to respond effectively to evolving global challenges.
