The 16th edition of the India-Mongolia Joint Military Exercise, Nomadic Elephant, concluded today at Umroi, Meghalaya, marking the end of a rigorous training period and collaboration. The closing ceremony saw the presence of Lt Gen Zubin A Minwalla, GOC of 33 Corps, and Maj Gen Ganbyamba Sunrev, Chief of General Staff of the Mongolian Armed Forces.
Enhancing Joint Capabilities
Scheduled from July 3 to 16, 2024, the exercise included 45 Indian soldiers from the SIKKIM SCOUTS Battalion and other units, joined by the 150 Quick Reaction Force Battalion of the Mongolian Army. This annual event, alternating between the two countries, facilitates synergy in conducting joint semi-conventional operations in semi-urban and mountainous terrains, thereby strengthening the interoperability between the two-armed forces. The previous exercise was held in Mongolia in July 2023.
Strategic Objectives and Training
The opening ceremony was attended by the Ambassador of Mongolia to India, Dambajavyn Ganbold, and Major General Prasanna Joshi, General Officer Commanding 51 Sub Area of the Indian Army. The primary aim of the exercise was to bolster joint military capabilities for counter-insurgency operations in semi-urban and mountainous terrains, aligning with Chapter VII of the United Nations Mandate.
Key tactical drills during the exercise included responding to terrorist actions, establishing joint command posts, intelligence and surveillance centers, securing helipads, small team insertions and extractions, special heliborne operations, and counter-drone measures. These drills promote the exchange of best practices in tactics, techniques, and procedures for joint operations, enhancing interoperability, camaraderie, and defence cooperation.
Bilateral Defence Relations
In addition to the exercise, the 12th India-Mongolia Joint Working Group meeting took place in Ulaanbaatar from May 16-17, 2024. The meeting, co-chaired by Amitabh Prasad of India, Joint Secretary, Indian Ministry of Defence, and Brigadier General Gankhuyag Davagdorj of Mongolia, focused on ongoing defence cooperation, reviewing progress, and identifying areas for further enhancement. Both sides expressed satisfaction with the existing defence cooperation and exchanged views on the current geopolitical situation.
During the discussions, the Indian Joint Secretary highlighted the potential of India’s defence industry, stressing a fruitful partnership with Mongolia’s Armed Forces. The Mongolian side acknowledged the growing ties between the two countries and expressed confidence in India’s industry capabilities.
Historical Context and Future Prospects
India’s historical ties with Mongolia, dating back to 1955, have strengthened over the years. In 1994, both nations signed the Treaty of Friendly Relations and Cooperation, further solidifying their relationship. During Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Mongolia in 2015, the ties were upgraded to a strategic partnership, with defence being an essential element of bilateral engagement.
As part of their growing cooperation, the India-funded greenfield oil refinery project in South Gobi aims to reduce Mongolia’s reliance on Russian oil imports. The refinery, with a capacity of 1.5 million tonnes annually, is expected to be operational by 2026, meeting Mongolia’s demand for various fuels.
Looking ahead, Mongolia anticipates a visit by the Indian Prime Minister in 2025, coinciding with the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations. The President of Mongolia is also expected to visit India later this year.