The 18th edition of the India-Mongolia Joint Military Exercise Nomadic Elephant 2026 commenced on Monday at the Foreign Training Node in Pithoragarh, Uttarakhand. The annual platoon-level exercise, conducted alternately between India and Mongolia, will continue till October 3.
The Indian Army and the Mongolian Armed Forces are participating in the exercise with 45 personnel each.
The previous edition of Nomadic Elephant was held in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia, in May-June 2025.
Focus on Counter-Insurgency Operations
The exercise is aimed at enhancing the joint military capability of the two forces to undertake Counter-Insurgency Operations in semi-urban and mountainous terrain under a United Nations mandate.
The joint training programme will focus on tactical-level operations, exchange of best practices, refinement of operational drills and strengthening interoperability between the two armies.
The participating troops will train together through a range of operational activities designed to replicate realistic field situations. The training is intended to enhance their ability to coordinate and operate jointly in challenging environments.
Training to Cover Drones, Cyber Security and Heliborne Operations
The training curriculum for Nomadic Elephant 2026 includes Cordon and Search Operations, Room Intervention Drills, Special Heliborne Operations and Cyber Security Training.
The exercise will also involve the employment of drones and counter-drone systems, along with other operational activities.
These drills will provide personnel from both armies an opportunity to train together in realistic operational scenarios while refining their tactical procedures and improving interoperability.
Strengthening India-Mongolia Defence Cooperation
Exercise Nomadic Elephant 2026 is expected to further strengthen defence cooperation between India and Mongolia and reinforce the longstanding bonds of friendship and mutual trust between the two countries.
