NEW DELHI: India and Egypt will conduct a joint special forces exercise, ‘Cyclone’, from April 9 to 17, aimed at strengthening military cooperation and enhancing operational coordination between the two countries.The Indian Army contingent has already departed for Egypt to take part in the fourth edition of the India–Egypt Joint Special Forces Exercise. The drill will be held at Anshas, according to the defence ministry.“The exercise is a continuation of the growing military cooperation between India and Egypt and follows the successful conduct of the previous edition in India. The Indian contingent, comprising 25 personnel from Special Forces units, will train alongside their Egyptian counterparts in a realistic operational environment,” the ministry said.Officials said the exercise is designed to enhance joint mission planning capabilities and improve interoperability through the exchange of best practices in special operations.During the exercise, troops from both sides will undertake a series of training activities focused on special operational tactics, techniques and procedures in desert and semi-desert terrain. The drills will simulate realistic scenarios, including unconventional operations across challenging environments.In a post on X, the Indian Army said, “The exercise aims to further enhance interoperability between the #IndianArmy and the #EgyptianArmy in conducting special operations under unconventional scenarios across desert and urban terrain.”The joint exercise will also facilitate the exchange of professional expertise and help build camaraderie between the forces, while deepening understanding of each other’s military traditions and cultures.“Through shared expertise and rigorous training, both nations continue to strengthen military ties and reaffirm their commitment to regional security and strategic cooperation. ‘Training together, standing stronger.’,” the Indian Army said.Bilateral exercises like ‘Cyclone’ are a key component of defence cooperation between India and Egypt, aimed at fostering mutual trust and strengthening ties between their armed forces.