India-Egypt joint special forces exercise CYCLONE-III begins in Rajasthan

The third edition of the joint special forces exercise CYCLONE has commenced at the Mahajan Field Firing Ranges in Rajasthan. The exercise is taking place from February 10 to February 23, 2025. (Image credits: ANI)

According to the ministry of defence, exercise CYCLONE aims to strengthen military-to-military relations between India and Egypt by enhancing interoperability, fostering joint operations, and facilitating the exchange of special operations tactics. (Image credits: PIB)

Exercise CYCLONE is held annually, alternating between India and Egypt. The previous edition of the exercise took place in Egypt in January 2024. The special forces of both nations train hard, demonstrating exceptional discipline, teamwork and adaptability. (Image credits: ANI)

The Indian contingent, made up of 25 personnel, includes troops from two special forces battalions. Likewise, the Egyptian contingent, also consisting of 25 personnel, is represented by a special forces group and a task force from the Egyptian special forces. (Image credits: PIB)

The exercise will cover advanced special forces skills along with a range of tactics, techniques and procedures aligned with the current operational paradigm. (Image credits: ANI)

A 48-hour validation phase will wrap up the exercise, with an emphasis on practicing and verifying tactical tactics for counterterrorism operations in semi-desert and desert environments. For the Egyptian contingent, it will also include a display of homegrown military hardware and an outline of India's defense manufacturing sector. (Image credits: ANI)

In addition to promoting unity and close ties among their troops, exercise CYCLONE will give both sides the chance to share best practices in tactics, procedures, and strategies for tactical operations. (Image credits: PBI)