Exercise DUSTLIK 2026, the seventh India–Uzbekistan joint military exercise, concluded successfully at the Gurumsaray Field Training Area in Namangan, Uzbekistan, after two weeks of intensive training from April 12–25, 2026. Designed to improve interoperability and joint operational capability in semi‑mountainous terrain, the drill moved from tactical and special‑arms training to a final validation of integrated missions.
The culmination featured six operational phases rehearsed in detail. Troops were organised into specialised elements — reconnaissance, airborne, surveillance, helicopter‑firing, and house‑intervention teams — with reserve components including engineer and medical detachments. A Joint Operational Command and Control Centre provided a unified planning and execution framework, while tactical drone surveillance, iterative rehearsals and on‑ground improvisation helped ensure coordinated responses and operational readiness.
A closing ceremony recognised distinguished guests and outstanding performers from both contingents, followed by a Commanders’ Dinner that underscored growing mutual trust and defence cooperation. The Indian Army noted on X that the exercise included a final validation exercise and closing ceremony at Gurumsaray and said the training “enhanced preparedness for joint operations to neutralise unlawful armed groups” while enabling exchange of counter‑terrorism best practices.
The Indian contingent comprised 60 personnel — 45 soldiers from a battalion of the MAHAR Regiment and 15 Indian Air Force members — who departed for the exercise on April 12. The Uzbekistan contingent numbered roughly 60 personnel drawn from its Army and Air Force, according to the Ministry of Defence.
Overall, DUSTLIK 2026 strengthened tactical coordination, reinforced defence ties and improved combined capabilities for counter‑terrorism and other joint operations in demanding terrain.
