India and Egypt have come together once again for a special military training event called Exercise CYCLONE. This is the 3 edition of the joint special forces exercise, which officially started yesterday at the Mahajan Field Firing Ranges in Rajasthan. The training program will run from February 10 to February 23, 2025.
Exercise CYCLONE is an annual event that is conducted alternately in India and Egypt. Last year, it took place in Egypt in January 2024, and this time, India is hosting it. A total of 50 soldiers—25 from the Indian Army’s Special Forces battalions and 25 from the Egyptian Special Forces Group and Task Force—are participating in this exercise.
The main purpose of this joint military training is to improve coordination and collaboration between the two countries' armed forces. It allows soldiers to share their knowledge, skills and tactics for special operations. The training includes intense physical fitness drills, joint mission planning, and tactical exercises to prepare both forces for real-life combat situations.
During the exercise, soldiers will practice advanced fighting skills and counter-terrorism techniques that are relevant in today's world. The training will conclude with a 48-hour-long final test, where troops will simulate real battlefield scenarios in desert and semi-desert conditions. Additionally, the Indian side will present Indigenous military equipment and supply insights into India’s defence manufacturing industry for the Egyptian forces.
This joint exercise not only makes military capabilities strong but also supports in building a strong bond of friendship and trust between Indian and Egyptian soldiers. It is a step toward better defence collaboration between the two nations, provided they are well-prepared to attack security challenges together in the future. (PR)