India-UAE Joint Exercise Mountain Guardian 2026 Begins at Chaubatia, Uttarakhand
The third edition of the India-UAE joint military exercise Mountain Guardian 2026 began on October 5, 2026, at the Foreign Training Node in Chaubatia, Uttarakhand, bringing together the Indian Army and the UAE Land Forces for two weeks of coordinated training and professional exchange.
Scheduled to run until October 18, the exercise is designed to deepen military cooperation between the two forces through joint planning, tactical drills, equipment handling and integrated field exercises. The training will also incorporate modern technology as part of the activities undertaken by the participating contingents.
Joint planning is a central feature of Mountain Guardian 2026, with the participating troops working together in the planning and conduct of the military activities. The field component will allow personnel from both armies to operate in a coordinated environment, while the equipment-handling drills are meant to build familiarity with procedures and systems used during the exercise.
The exercise is also intended to strengthen interoperability between the Indian Army and the UAE Land Forces, particularly in sub-conventional operations. By training together in a field setting and sharing operational practices, the two sides are expected to improve coordination and understanding of each other’s methods.
Mountain Guardian 2026 also reflects the continuing defence engagement between India and the United Arab Emirates. The joint training programme offers a platform for the exchange of professional experience and for familiarisation with operational procedures through practical exercises.
According to the schedule, the Indian Army and UAE Land Forces will remain engaged in the exercise at Chaubatia from October 5 to 18, with joint planning, tactical drills, equipment handling and integrated field exercises forming the core elements of the programme.
Mountain Guardian 2026 is expected to further reinforce the growing India-UAE defence partnership and enhance interoperability between the two militaries in sub-conventional operations.
