Context

• Joint exercise 'Cyclone' between Indian and Egyptian armies was organised in the Egyptian city of Anshas.

Background

• The first edition of this exercise was conducted in India in 2023.

Key Points

• For this, a special forces contingent of the Indian Army reached Egypt.
• The exercise provides an opportunity to the militaries of both the countries to strengthen their ties and share best practices.
• In the exercise, the Indian contingent was represented by soldiers of the Parachute Regiment (Special Forces).
• The Egyptian contingent of 25 personnel was represented by the Egyptian Commando Squadron and the Egyptian Airborne Platoon.

Objective

• Its objective is to acquaint both sides with each other's operating procedures in the backdrop of special operations in desert/semi-desert areas under Chapter VII of the Charter of the United Nations.
• Exercise ‘Cyclone’ is designed to develop bilateral military cooperation and strengthen the relationship between the two armies through rehearsals of tactical military exercise and discussions between the two armies.

Three phases of this Exercise

• The exercise involved planning and execution of special operations in the sub-conventional area and was conducted in three phases.
• While the first phase involved military demonstrations and strategic interactions, the second phase focused on training on Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs), Counter IEDs and Combat First Aid.
• The third and final phase involved joint tactical maneuvers based on built-up area combat and hostage rescue scenarios.

IMPORTANT FACTS FOR EXAM

Egypt

• Capital: Cairo
• President: Abdel Fattah El-Sisi
• Prime minister: Mostafa Madbouly
• Currency: Egyptian Pound