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Nomadic Elephant 2026

Why in News?

The 18th edition of the India-Mongolia Joint Military Exercise Nomadic Elephant 2026 began on 21 September 2026 at the Foreign Training Node in Pithoragarh, Uttarakhand. The annual platoon-level exercise will continue until 3 October 2026. It involves 45 personnel from the Indian Army and 45 personnel from the Mongolian Armed Forces.

About Exercise Nomadic Elephant

Nomadic Elephant is a bilateral military exercise between India and Mongolia. It is conducted annually and alternates between the two countries. The exercise promotes military cooperation, operational coordination, and the exchange of tactical best practices.

The 17th edition was held in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia, in May–June 2025. The 18th edition is being hosted by India in the mountainous region of Uttarakhand.

Objectives and Training Focus

The primary objective of Nomadic Elephant 2026 is to improve the joint military capabilities of both countries for conducting Counter-Insurgency Operations in semi-urban and mountainous terrain under a United Nations mandate.

The training programme focuses on tactical-level operations, operational drills, and interoperability between the two armies. Key activities include:

Cordon and Search Operations: Systematic search and security operations in a designated area.
Room Intervention Drills: Tactical exercises for operations inside buildings.
Special Heliborne Operations: Training involving the deployment and movement of troops through helicopters.
Cyber Security Training: Developing awareness and operational preparedness against cyber-related threats.
Drone and Counter-Drone Systems: Training in the use of unmanned systems and methods to counter them.

These activities allow personnel from both armies to train in realistic operational situations and improve their ability to coordinate during joint missions.

Significance of India-Mongolia Defence Cooperation

Nomadic Elephant strengthens defence cooperation and professional relations between India and Mongolia. Joint exercises help participating personnel understand each other’s procedures, exchange operational experiences, and improve interoperability.

The inclusion of mountainous terrain, cyber security, drones, and counter-drone systems reflects the varied requirements of contemporary military operations.