The India-UAE Joint Military Exercise Mountain Guardian 2026 was held at the Foreign Training Node, Chaubatia, Uttarakhand. The exercise, was conducted between 5-18 October 2026, and aimed to enhance interoperability, mutual understanding and cooperation, with a focus on mountain warfare.

A total of 92 personnel, with equal representation from both armies, participated in the exercise. The Indian Army contingent comprised troops from a Bhairav Battalion, while the UAE Army contingent comprised troops from a Mountain Infantry Battalion. Women officers and combatants from both armies also participated in the exercise across specialist roles.

During the exercise, troops undertook joint planning, tactical drills, firing practices, establishment of surveillance grids, drone operations, physical endurance training, rock climbing, obstacle training and integrated field exercises. The training also incorporated technology-enabled operations and exchange of tactics, techniques and procedures relevant to operations in challenging mountainous terrain.

Exercise Mountain Guardian 2026 provided an opportunity for both armies to exchange professional experience, enhance tactical proficiency and exchange best practices in operational procedures. The exercise further strengthened military-to-military cooperation between India and the UAE and reinforced the bonds of friendship and trust between the two nations.