India and Kyrgyzstan Launch Joint Special Forces Exercise 'Khanjar' in Himachal Pradesh to Strengthen Military Cooperation

The 11th edition of the India-Kyrgyzstan Joint Special Forces Exercise KHANJAR has kicked off at the Special Forces Training School in Bakloh, Himachal Pradesh, running from January 22 to February 3, 2024.

This annual event, hosted alternatively by both nations, features a 20-personnel contingent from each side—the Indian Army represented by The Parachute Regiment (Special Forces) and the Kyrgyzstan contingent by the Scorpion Brigade.

The exercise aims to foster collaboration in Counter-Terrorism and Special Forces Operations, particularly in Built-up Areas and Mountainous Terrain as per Chapter VII of the United Nations Charter.

Focus areas include enhancing Special Forces skills, advanced insertion and extraction techniques, and the display of cutting-edge indigenous defense equipment.

Beyond military objectives, KHANJAR serves as a platform to strengthen defense ties, address shared concerns about international terrorism, and promote bilateral relations.