Current Summary
The Indian Army and the UAE military are conducting joint tactical drills, operational planning and integrated training at the Foreign Training Node in Chaubatia, Almora district, as part of the Mountain Guardian 2026 exercise. The exercise runs from October 5 to October 18 and brings together 92 personnel, with India represented by a Bhairav Battalion of the Army and the UAE by its Mountain Infantry Battalion. Training has focused on techniques for sub-conventional operations in mountainous terrain, including Jiu-Jitsu, reflex shooting, rock climbing, slithering and specialised mountain craft instruction in the initial phase. The contingents are now carrying out joint surveillance grids, drone operations and integrated field exercises. Officials describe the exercise as a platform for the two countries to exchange expertise in mountain warfare and strengthen bilateral defence cooperation.
What We Know
- Exercise is being held at the Foreign Training Node in Chaubatia, Almora district
- It runs from October 5 to October 18, 2026, a 14-day exercise
- 92 personnel are involved, including India's Bhairav Battalion and the UAE's Mountain Infantry Battalion
- Training includes Jiu-Jitsu, reflex shooting, rock climbing, slithering and mountain craft, plus joint surveillance grids and drone operations
What Is Still Unclear
- Specific outcomes or concluding exercises planned before October 18 have not been detailed
What Changed
- 14 Oct, 11:30 amSignal detected: Indian and UAE Armies Hold Joint Mountain Warfare Drills at Chaubatia in Almora
Background
Mountain Guardian is a recurring bilateral exercise between the Indian Army and the UAE military aimed at building cooperation in high-altitude and mountain warfare tactics.