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Pune, April 16, 2025: The 6th edition of the India-Uzbekistan Joint Military Exercise DUSTLIK-VI began today at the Foreign Training Node in Aundh, Pune. The two-week-long exercise, scheduled from April 16 to 28, aims to strengthen military cooperation and interoperability between the armed forces of India and Uzbekistan.
The Indian Army is represented by a battalion of the JAT Regiment along with personnel from the Indian Air Force (IAF). The Uzbekistan contingent consists of troops from the Uzbekistan Army. Held annually, Exercise DUSTLIK alternates between both nations — the previous edition took place in Termez District, Uzbekistan, in April 2024.
Focus on Joint Sub-Conventional Operations
This year’s exercise is centered around the theme of Joint Multi-Domain Sub-Conventional Operations in a Semi-Urban Scenario. It simulates a coordinated response to terrorist threats, particularly the capture of a defined territory.
Key highlights include:
Setting up a Joint Operations Centre at the battalion level
Counterterrorism operations such as raids, search-and-destroy missions, and population control
Use of air power including drones, helicopters, and firepower support
Special Heliborne Operations (SHBO) and Small Team Insertion and Extraction (STIE)
Securing helipads, aerial reconnaissance, and logistics support in hostile terrain
Special Forces from both the Army and Air Force will jointly conduct complex missions, making use of modern warfare tools including counter-UAS measures and unmanned aerial systems.
Strengthening Bilateral Defence Ties
Exercise DUSTLIK-VI offers an invaluable platform for the two countries to exchange best practices in tactics, techniques, and procedures. It also helps build mutual trust, camaraderie, and operational synergy, further boosting defence relations between India and Uzbekistan.
As both nations continue to deepen strategic cooperation, DUSTLIK-VI marks a key milestone in fostering lasting military-to-military engagement.
