Military Exercise 'Nomadic Elephant 2025'

Context

The 17th edition of the bilateral military exercise 'Nomadic Elephant 2025' between India and Mongolia has commenced at the Special Forces Training Centre in Ulaanbaatar. This edition emphasizes UN peacekeeping simulation, counter-terror operations, and interoperability in semi-urban and mountainous terrains.

'Nomadic Elephant

Exercise Type & Nature:
- Bilateral military exercise.
- Focus on non-conventional warfare, counter-terrorism, and UN peacekeeping operations.
- Enhances interoperability and tactical coordination between Indian and Mongolian forces.
Geostrategic Significance:
- Mongolia shares borders with Russia and China.
- The exercise strengthens India’s Act East and Central Asia outreach, acting as a strategic counter to China's regional influence.
Defence Diplomacy:
- Showcases India’s military diplomacy and ability to operate with partner nations in challenging terrains.
- Reinforces India–Mongolia defence cooperation, institutionalized through training, shared tactics, and cultural exchange.
UN Peacekeeping Focus:
- Simulated UN peacekeeping operations replicate multinational real-world missions, aligning with India’s global peacekeeping role.
- Supports India’s case for greater role in UNSC reforms and global peace operations.
Terrain Specialisation:
- Exercises in mountainous and semi-urban terrains improve force preparedness for border and high-altitude operations—vital for India’s northern defence planning.
Previous Editions:
- First held in 2004; now institutionalised.
- Reflects long-term continuity and commitment to Indo-Mongolian strategic partnership.

Other Military Exercises:

Yudh Abhyas – India & United States
- Focus: Tactical-level joint exercises in counter-insurgency, high-altitude warfare, and humanitarian assistance.
Indra – India & Russia
- Focus: Tri-services (Army, Navy, Air Force) exercise covering counter-terrorism and conventional operation
Mitra Shakti – India & Sri Lanka
- Focus: Low-intensity conflict operations and counter-insurgency in jungle terrain.
Shakti – India & France
- Focus: Counter-terror and high-altitude warfare, conducted in both nations' territories.
Surya Kiran – India & Nepal
- Focus: Counter-terrorism and disaster response.
Garuda Shakti – India & Indonesia
- Focus: Special forces joint operations, anti-terror drills in jungle terrain.