News Excerpt:

The Indian Army special forces contingent and Egypt are participating in the 2nd edition of the India-Egypt Joint Special Forces Exercise CYCLONE.

About the Exercise Cyclone:

• The exercise is being conducted at Anshas, Egypt from 22nd January to 1st February 2024.
• The Indian contingent is represented by troops from ‘The Parachute Regiment’ (Special Forces), and the Egyptian contingent comprising 25 personnel is represented by ‘Egyptian Commando Squadron and Egyptian Airborne Platoon.’
• The first edition of the exercise was conducted last year in Rajasthan, India.

• Objective:
• It aims to acquaint both sides with each other’s operating procedures in the backdrop of Special Operations in desert/semi-desert terrain under Chapter VII of the United Nations Charter.  
• Exercise CYCLONE is designed to develop bilateral military cooperation and strengthen the bond between two armies through discussions and rehearsing tactical military drills.

• The Exercise involves planning and executing special operations in the sub-conventional domain and is conducted in three phases. 
• The first phase includes Military Exhibitions and Tactical Interactions.
• The second phase focuses on training on Improvised Explosive Device (IED), counter IED and Combat First Aid.
• The third and final phase encompasses a Joint Tactical Exercise based on Fighting in Built-up Area and Hostage Rescue Scenarios.
• Significance:
• This Exercise will provide an opportunity for both the contingents to strengthen their bond and share best practices.
• It will also act as a platform to achieve shared security objectives and foster bilateral relations between two friendly nations.