Nomadic Elephant 2025: Indian and Mongolian Forces Sharpen Mountain Warfare Skills

National News: India and Mongolia's bilateral military cooperation continues to strengthen, clearly reflected in Nomadic Elephant 2025 — the 17th edition of the joint military exercise between their armed forces. This exercise starts on 31 May in Ulaanbaatar, the capital of Mongolia, and will continue till 13 June 2025. Its objective is to increase cooperation in anti-terrorism operations in mountainous and semi-urban areas and to share combat skills.

Soldiers are learning the nuances of mountain warfare

45 soldiers of Arunachal Scouts are participating from India in this exercise. This unit is specially trained in mountain warfare and has proven its capability many times in the difficult areas of the Northeast. During the exercise, soldiers are being trained in sniper shooting, room-clearing operations, and combat techniques in urban areas. Along with this, focus is also being given to topics like civil assistance in the context of UN peace missions.

From cyber war to survival skills

Nomadic Elephant 2025 is not limited to just traditional military maneuvers, but future threats are also being taken into account. Soldiers are being trained in understanding basic cyber warfare, consistency in communication, and safe use of technical equipment. Also, special sessions have been organized on climbing, tracking, and survival techniques in rocky terrain and high mountains.

New direction to India-Mongolia defense relations

This exercise further reinforces the strategic trust and defense partnership between the two nations. Defense, culture, and religious exchanges between India and Mongolia have increased rapidly in the last few years. Both countries have emphasized increasing mutual cooperation in view of China's geopolitical conditions. This military exercise is also being considered a concrete step in the same direction.

Military bond is also being formed through culture

During the exercise, not only weapons are being spoken of, but the soldiers of both countries are also deepening mutual understanding through cultural programs and shared traditions. This not only improves military strategy but also creates an environment of understanding and trust among each other at the human level.