The 18th edition of the India–Mongolia Joint Military Exercise NOMADIC ELEPHANT 2026 is progressing at the Foreign Training Node in Pithoragarh, Uttarakhand, with troops from the Indian Army and Mongolian Armed Forces undertaking a series of intensive joint training activities.
The bilateral exercise is focused on enhancing interoperability, tactical proficiency and mutual understanding between the two armies. The ongoing training combines weapons handling, operations in built-up areas, close-combat techniques and exchanges of military practices between personnel of both contingents.
As part of the exercise, Mongolian Armed Forces personnel underwent weapon handling and firing training on small arms systems. The sessions covered weapon familiarisation, safety drills, loading and unloading procedures, aiming techniques and live firing practices.
Structured practical training allowed the Mongolian soldiers to gain familiarity with the weapon systems while reinforcing safe, confident and disciplined handling. Indian Army personnel guided their Mongolian counterparts through the procedures and firing drills as part of the professional exchange between the two forces.
The Indian Army contingent also demonstrated Room Intervention Drills designed for operations in built-up areas. The demonstration included systematic entry into rooms, clearance procedures, coordinated movement, communication between team members, fire discipline and casualty evacuation techniques.
The drills highlighted the importance of precision, teamwork and situational awareness while operating in confined and potentially hostile environments. Following the demonstration, Mongolian Armed Forces personnel joined Indian Army troops for hands-on training, allowing both sides to exchange operational practices and strengthen tactical-level interoperability.
The Mongolian contingent also introduced Indian Army personnel to elements of Mongolia’s martial heritage through demonstrations of Mongolian Classical Wrestling, known as Bökh, and unarmed combat techniques.
The demonstrations featured traditional wrestling methods, controlled grappling and close-combat movements requiring strength, agility and discipline. The activities provided Indian soldiers with an insight into Mongolia’s longstanding martial traditions while also highlighting skills associated with physical endurance and battlefield resilience.
Beyond tactical training, the joint activities have provided personnel from both armies opportunities for professional interaction and mutual learning. The exchange of military techniques and martial traditions has also helped strengthen camaraderie between the Indian and Mongolian contingents.
Exercise NOMADIC ELEPHANT serves as an important platform for the Indian Army and Mongolian Armed Forces to train together, share operational experience and improve their ability to work in coordination during joint missions. The 2026 edition continues to deepen defence cooperation and military-to-military ties between India and Mongolia through practical field training and professional exchanges.
