India and Uzbekistan have kicked off the sixth edition of their joint military exercise, Exercise Dustlik-VI, at the Foreign Training Node in Aundh, Pune. Scheduled to run from April 16 to 28, the two-week bilateral exercise aims to strengthen military cooperation and enhance interoperability in counterterrorism operations in semi-urban terrain.
This year’s edition sees participation from a 60-member Indian Army contingent, led by a battalion from the JAT Regiment, alongside elements of the Indian Air Force (IAF). The Uzbekistan contingent comprises personnel from the Uzbekistan Army. The annual training event is held alternately in India and Uzbekistan, with the previous edition in Termez District, Uzbekistan, in April 2024.
Counterterrorism in Semi-Urban Settings
The theme of Dustlik-VI is centred on joint multi-domain sub-conventional operations in semi-urban environments, with a specific focus on responding to terrorist actions involving the seizure of territory. The training modules will include establishing a joint operations centre at the battalion level, population control measures, search-and-destroy operations, coordinated raids, and firepower employment—including air assets—to neutralise terrorist elements.
According to the Indian Army, special forces from both the Army and Air Force will simulate securing a helipad to serve as a launch base for follow-on missions. Air operations will feature prominently, including Special Heliborne Operations (SHBO), Small Team Insertion and Extraction (STIE), and the deployment of helicopters for reconnaissance and surveillance.
Drones, Counter-UAS Measures and Logistics in Focus
As part of the evolving operational landscape, the exercise will also incorporate the use of drones and counter-Unmanned Aerial System (UAS) tactics, along with logistics support provided by the IAF to maintain operational momentum in contested zones.
Strengthening Strategic Ties
Exercise Dustlik-VI serves as a key platform for the two nations to exchange best practices in tactics, techniques, and procedures (TTPs) for joint sub-conventional warfare. More importantly, it fosters deeper military understanding, camaraderie, and interoperability—crucial elements in today’s multidimensional security environment.
The exercise is expected to further cement the growing defence cooperation between India and Uzbekistan, enhance bilateral ties, and underline their shared commitment to regional stability and counterterrorism collaboration.
Team BharatShakti
