The opening ceremony of the third edition of the India-UAE Joint Military Exercise Mountain Guardian 2026 was held at the Foreign Training Node, Chaubatia, Uttarakhand, on October 5, 2026.
The two-week exercise, being conducted from October 5 to 18, brings together the Indian Army and UAE Land Forces for joint military training and professional interaction.
Mountain Guardian 2026 will focus on joint planning, tactical drills, handling of equipment and integrated field exercises. The exercise will also leverage modern technology as part of the training activities undertaken by the participating forces.
The joint training programme is aimed at enhancing interoperability between the Indian Army and UAE Land Forces. The exercise will provide the participating troops with an opportunity to train together through coordinated planning and field exercises.
Joint planning forms a key component of the exercise, allowing the participating forces to work together during the conduct of the planned military activities. The exercise will also include tactical drills and equipment-handling activities as part of the two-week training programme.
The integrated field exercises will provide an opportunity for personnel from both armies to undertake coordinated activities in a field environment. The use of modern technology will further support the training objectives of the exercise.
The third edition of Mountain Guardian also reflects the continuing defence engagement between India and the United Arab Emirates. The exercise is intended to further strengthen the interoperability of the two armies during sub-conventional operations.
The exercise will provide a platform for the participating personnel to exchange professional experiences and familiarise themselves with each other’s operational procedures through joint training activities.
The Indian Army and UAE Land Forces will undertake the exercise from October 5 to 18 at Chaubatia, with joint planning, tactical drills, equipment handling and integrated field exercises forming the core elements of the training.
Mountain Guardian 2026 is expected to further strengthen interoperability between the two forces in sub-conventional operations and reinforce the growing India-UAE defence partnership.
