♦ India and the United Arab Emirates launched the second edition of their joint military exercise, Desert Cyclone II at Abu Dhabi on 18 December 2025. The exercise concludes on 30 December 2025. It focuses on enhancing joint operational capabilities in complex urban warfare environments. 

♦ The Indian contingent comprises 45 personnel, primarily from a battalion of the Mechanised Infantry Regiment. The UAE Land Forces contingent, of similar strength, will be represented by the 53 Mechanised Infantry Battalion.

♦ The aim of the exercise is to enhance interoperability and foster defence cooperation between the Indian Army and the UAE Land Forces through joint training in an urban environment, with a focus on sub-conventional operations under a United Nations mandate. This will enable both forces to operate together in peacekeeping, counter-terrorism and stability operations.