India, Egypt to conduct 2nd edition of joint exercise in Anshas

The Indian Army contingent comprising 25 personnel reached Egypt to take part in the 2nd edition of a joint exercise called 'Cyclone' between special forces of India and Egypt. The exercise will be conducted at Anshas, Egypt from 22nd January to 1st February 2024. The first edition of the exercise was conducted last year in India.The exercise is aimed to acquaint both sides with each other’s operating procedures in the backdrop of special operations in desert/semi-desert terrain under chapter VII of the United Nations Charter.The Indian contingent is being represented by troops from the Parachute Regiment (Special Forces) and the Egyptian contingent comprising 25 personnel is being represented by the Egyptian Commando Squadron and the Egyptian Airborne Platoon, the statement said.Exercise Cyclone is designed to develop bilateral military cooperation and strengthen the bond between two armies through the conduct of discussions and rehearsal of tactical military drills.The exercise will involve the planning and execution of special operations in the sub-conventional domain and conducted in three phases. While the first phase will include military exhibitions and tactical interactions, the second phase will focus on training on Improvised Explosive Device (IED), counter IED and Combat First Aid. The third and final phase will encompass a Joint Tactical Exercise based on Fighting in Built-up Areas and Hostage Rescue Scenarios.The exercise will provide an opportunity for both contingents to strengthen their bond and share best practices. It will also act as a platform to achieve shared security objectives and foster bilateral relations between two friendly nations.