The 6th edition of the joint military exercise Dustlik 2025 between India and Uzbekistan concluded on Sunday, April 28, at Aundh Military Station in Pune, according to a statement by the Indian Army.
In a post on X (formerly Twitter), the Indian Army emphasized the exercise’s focus on strengthening joint capabilities to counter terrorist threats in a semi-urban environment.
“Our combined capabilities, honed through rigorous drills and the exchange of best practices, project a formidable deterrent. Indian Army & Uzbekistan Army stand united and prepared to neutralize any challenge to regional stability,” the post stated.
About Exercise Dustlik 2025
The joint military exercise was conducted from April 16 to 28, 2025.
- The Indian contingent included 60 personnel from a Battalion of the JAT Regiment and the Indian Air Force (IAF).
- The Uzbekistan contingent was represented by troops from the Uzbekistan Army.
Exercise Dustlik is an annual training event, held alternately in India and Uzbekistan. The previous edition took place in the Termez District, Uzbekistan in April 2024.
Key Highlights of the Exercise
This year’s Dustlik focused on Joint Multi-Domain Sub-Conventional Operations in a semi-urban scenario, specifically:
- Responding to terrorist actions involving captured territories
- Establishing a Joint Operations Centre at the battalion level for coordinated operations
- Conducting population control measures, raids, search-and-destroy operations, and using air assets for counterterrorism missions
- Special forces from both armies secured a helipad as a mounting base for further operations
The exercise has helped both countries enhance their military cooperation and prepare for real-world operational challenges.
With Exercise Dustlik 2025, India and Uzbekistan have once again demonstrated their strong military ties and shared commitment to ensuring regional peace and stability.
