India and Saudi Arabia have commenced Exercise Sada Tanseeq, their first-ever bilateral army drill, in Rajasthan, Northern India.
The exercise aims to hone the countries’ interoperability in semi-desert terrain, allowing them to share best practices and techniques for sub-conventional locations.
Riyadh’s contingent comes from the Royal Saudi Land Forces, while New Delhi’s unit consists of soldiers from the Brigade of the Guards (Mechanised Infantry). Both groups are made up of 45 personnel each.
Sada Tanseeq drills will involve establishing mobile vehicle check posts, cordon and search operations, house interventions, reflex shooting, and sniper exercises.
The exercise is in accordance with Chapter VII of the United Nations Charter, which focuses on restoring international peace and security. It is scheduled to run until February 10.
An Era of Firsts
India’s Armed Forces also had its inaugural exercise with the UAE earlier this year.
Exercise Desert Cyclone focused on enhancing their interoperability in sub-conventional operations, including fighting in built-up areas.
Joint surveillance centers, cordon and search operations, and heliborne drills were some of the drills conducted in the two-week exercise.
The Indian Armed Forces’ increased focus on international engagements comes amid its increased growth. A recent ranking placed the Indian military as the world’s fourth strongest, ahead of countries like South Korea and the UK.
