India-Kyrgyzstan Special Forces Launch Joint Exercise 'Khanjar' in Assam

India-Kyrgyzstan Bolster Ties with Special Forces Exercise 'Khanjar' in Assam

The annual bilateral special forces exercise  ‘Khanjar’  between India and Kyrgyzstan commenced on  February 4, 2026 , at the  Missamari military station in Assam . The drill, scheduled to run until February 17, underscores the deepening defence cooperation and shared commitment of the two nations to enhance counter-terrorism capabilities and promote regional security and stability.

Participating Forces and Exercise Venue
The exercise involves a  20-member contingent from the Indian Army's elite Parachute Regiment (Special Forces)  and an equal-strength team from the  Kyrgyzstan ILBRIS Special Forces Brigade . Missamari, a key military base in Assam, serves as the host venue for this intensive training, reinforcing its role as a hub for joint military preparedness activities.

Focus on Counter-Terrorism and Tactical Skills
Organized under the aegis of the  United Nations mandate , Exercise Khanjar is designed to improve  interoperability  between the special forces of both nations. The training focuses on exchanging best practices in  counter-terrorism and special operations  across challenging environments, including  urban settings and mountainous terrain . Key skill drills encompass  sniping, complex building intervention, and advanced mountaineering techniques , aimed at boosting the tactical readiness of the troops for real-world scenarios.

Strengthening Strategic and Defence Ties
Exercise Khanjar is a cornerstone of the expanding  India-Kyrgyzstan strategic partnership . First conducted in 2011, this annual drill reflects the growing alignment on addressing global security challenges like terrorism and extremism. Defence cooperation extends beyond exercises to include  training of Kyrgyz personnel at Indian institutions , joint research at the  Kyrgyz-India Mountain Biomedical Research Centre in Bishkek , and regular exchange programs. The 2025 edition was held in Tokmok, Kyrgyzstan, highlighting the reciprocal nature of this engagement.

Exam-Focused Important Facts:

• Exercise:   'Khanjar' , an annual  bilateral special forces exercise  between India and Kyrgyzstan.

• Year Started:   2011 .

• 2026 Venue:   Missamari, Assam , India.

• Participants:   Indian Army's Parachute Regiment (SF)  and  Kyrgyzstan's ILBRIS Special Forces Brigade .

• Focus:  Enhancing  counter-terrorism capabilities  and  interoperability  under a UN mandate.