The two‑week joint drill between the DUSTLIK forces of India and Uzbekistan kicked off at an Indian training ground in Pithoragarh, with coverage from India’s leading information portals confirming the start. The operation marks a deliberate effort by both nations to test and refine shared procedures on the ground, using modern equipment and emerging technologies in a coordinated, multi‑domain environment.
According to the reporting outlet, an equal representation of personnel took part—forty‑five soldiers from each side—tasked with absorbing hands‑on experience in operating next‑generation systems and enabling seamless interoperability during joint missions. The exercise emphasizes practical learning and the ability to synchronize activities across units, terrains, and command chains, a key objective for both armed forces as they build mutual trust and capability.
Officials highlighted that the core aim is to boost interoperability between Indian and Uzbek contingents. This focus ensures that, when a real‑world scenario demands cooperative action, the two militaries can operate in harmony, share situational awareness, and execute coordinated responses under unified standards and protocols.
The fourteen‑day program is set to center on joint counter‑terrorism operations in challenging mountain and semi‑urban settings, conducted under a United Nations mandate. It will span field exercises, tactical discussions, formal briefings, demonstrations, and culminate in rigorous test scenarios designed to validate new procedures and doctrine under realistic conditions.
Earlier reporting recalls a trip in August 2022 by India’s Defense Minister to Uzbekistan for a three‑day engagement with SCO defense ministers. The visit featured bilateral talks and strategic exchanges aimed at strengthening defense cooperation within the Shanghai Cooperation Organization framework.
During that visit, the minister publicly noted a bilateral meeting with Uzbekistan’s Defense Minister, Lieutenant General Bakhodir Kurbanov, and shared on social media a moment describing a strong personal rapport, which underscored the value both countries place on ongoing dialogue and practical coordination. The ministry also indicated that additional meetings with other SCO member defense leaders were on the agenda to discuss bilateral concerns and shared interests across security, modernization, and regional stability.