A contingent of the Indian Army has departed for Kyrgyzstan to participate in Exercise Khanjar-XII, the 12th edition of the annual India-Kyrgyzstan Joint Special Forces exercise. Scheduled from March 10 to March 23, the exercise will see elite troops from both nations train together in high-altitude and urban warfare scenarios.
Since its inception in 2011, Exercise Khanjar has become a key event in the growing defence cooperation between India and Kyrgyzstan, with hosting duties alternating between the two countries. The last edition was held in India in January 2024.
The Indian contingent is represented by troops from The Parachute Regiment (Special Forces), while Kyrgyzstan’s Scorpion Brigade will participate from the host nation. The primary objective of the exercise is to exchange expertise in counterterrorism operations and Special Forces tactics, particularly in mountainous and high-altitude environments. Training modules will include advanced sniping, close-quarters combat, complex building interventions, and mountain warfare techniques.
In addition to military drills, the exercise will foster cultural ties through engagements such as celebrating Nowruz, the Kyrgyz New Year festival. This cultural exchange aims to strengthen the camaraderie between the participating forces.
The joint exercise underscores India and Kyrgyzstan’s shared commitment to countering terrorism and enhancing regional security. By deepening strategic and defence ties, both nations reaffirm their dedication to maintaining peace and stability in the region.
Team BharatShakti
