India and Kyrgyzstan’s joint military exercise KHANJAR begins in Assam
The 13th edition of the joint military Exercise KHANJAR between India and Kyrgyzstan begins today at Misamari in Sonitpur district of Assam. The 14-day-long military exercise aims to enhance interoperability between the Special Forces of both nations, with a focus on joint operations in urban warfare and counter-terrorism scenarios under the United Nations mandate.
This KHANJAR exercise will further strengthen bilateral defence cooperation and deepen the enduring military partnership between India and Kyrgyzstan. According to military sources, India’s elite Parachute Regiment and Kyrgyzstan’s Scorpion Brigade will practice advanced skills such as sniping, room intervention, building clearance, mountain craft and specialised counter-terrorism drills.
India and Kyrgyzstan organising joint military exercises annually since 2011, with venues alternating between the countries to reflect deepening defence ties. The 12th edition was conducted in March 2025 in Kyrgyzstan, and included intensive exercises in sniping, complex building intervention, mountain craft and specialised counter‑terrorism drills, alongside high‑altitude operations and cultural exchanges that reinforced camaraderie between the contingents. Officials said Exercise Khanjar also reflects the growing India-Kyrgyzstan defence partnership, contributing to regional security cooperation and closer military ties.
