In a display of military camaraderie, the 13th edition of the joint military exercise Khanjar 2026 between India and Kyrgyzstan concluded with a grand closing ceremony at the Special Forces Training School in Misamari, Assam, on Tuesday. Running from February 4 to 17, 2026, the drill brought together elite units from both nations, fostering a spirit of friendship and professionalism.
The primary goal was to enhance mutual understanding, operational synergy, and shared tactical capabilities. Twenty commandos from India’s Parachute Regiment (Special Forces) trained alongside an equal contingent from Kyrgyzstan’s Ilbirs Special Forces Brigade. The intensive program covered counter-terrorism operations, specialized drills, urban warfare tactics, and training under UN mandates.
Participants exchanged best practices, significantly boosting interoperability and trust. This annual bilateral event, initiated in 2011, alternates between the two countries. The previous round took place in Kyrgyzstan in March 2025.
During the closing ceremony, leaders from both sides expressed satisfaction over the exercise’s success. It not only sharpened military skills but also reaffirmed commitments to regional stability, security, and enduring defense cooperation. The event strengthened the India-Kyrgyzstan defense partnership, particularly in countering terrorism and extremism.
In related developments, Air Marshal Jitendra Mishra, Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Western Air Command, visited a frontline air force station. He received a guard of honor upon arrival and conducted a thorough review of operational readiness. Flying an operational sortie in an SU-30MKI fighter aircraft, he interacted with air warriors and support staff, praising their high morale, professionalism, and constant state of preparedness.
Air Marshal Mishra emphasized that such preparations are vital for national security, with Western Air Command teams fully committed to tackling challenges head-on. This visit underscored the Indian Air Force’s robust operational capabilities.