The Indian Army’s Special Forces contingent has set forth for Kyrgyzstan to participate in Exercise Khanjar-XII 2025, the 12th edition of the annual bilateral military exercise between India and Kyrgyzstan. This 14-day high-intensity joint training exercise, scheduled to be held from March 10 to March 23, 2025, aims to enhance interoperability, exchange best practices, and strengthen military cooperation between the two nations.
Held at Tokmok, Kyrgyzstan, the exercise will focus on counter-terrorism operations, special forces training in urban warfare, and tactical operations in mountainous terrain. These drills are crucial in addressing emerging security challenges, particularly in the fight against international terrorism and extremism. Given the shared regional security concerns, Exercise Khanjar serves as a platform for honing joint operational skills in diverse combat environments.
The exercise involves special forces from both countries, with India being represented by troops from the Parachute Regiment (Special Forces) and Kyrgyzstan by the Scorpion Brigade, known for its expertise in mountain warfare and counter-terror operations. The joint drills will include close-quarter combat, urban counter-terrorism maneuvers, hostage rescue operations, and reconnaissance missions.
As an annual exercise, Khanjar alternates between India and Kyrgyzstan, symbolizing the growing strategic partnership and defense collaboration between the two nations. The exercise reinforces military diplomacy, paving the way for stronger defense ties, mutual trust, and operational synergy between the Indian Army and Kyrgyz Armed Forces.
With “Training Together, Thriving Together” as its core theme, Exercise Khanjar-XII 2025 is set to enhance combat preparedness, strengthen military camaraderie, and contribute to regional security efforts, ensuring that both nations remain ready to tackle evolving security challenges with efficiency and coordination.
