New Delhi, June 29: The Indian Army contingent participating in Exercise Khaan Quest 2026 has continued to demonstrate a high level of operational readiness, professionalism and teamwork during the ongoing multinational military exercise at the Five Hills Training Area in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia. Conducted under the United Nations Charter Chapter VII framework, the exercise brings together armed forces from numerous countries to enhance interoperability, strengthen peacekeeping capabilities and promote military cooperation through realistic field training and professional exchanges.
Drawing upon India’s extensive experience as one of the world’s largest contributors to United Nations Peacekeeping Operations (UNPKO), the Indian contingent has been actively participating in a series of demanding tactical exercises, humanitarian operations and multinational sporting events designed to prepare troops for complex peacekeeping missions.
Intensive Training in Modern Peacekeeping Operations
As the exercise entered its mid-training phase, Indian Army personnel undertook rigorous operational modules covering several critical aspects of contemporary peacekeeping missions. These included Counter-Improvised Explosive Device (Counter-IED) operations, Tactical Combat Casualty Care (TCCC), convoy protection drills, and specialised sessions on International Humanitarian Law based on the Geneva Conventions.
These training modules are intended to prepare troops for deployment in conflict-affected regions where United Nations peacekeepers are often required to operate under challenging security conditions while protecting civilians, maintaining stability and ensuring humanitarian assistance reaches affected populations.
Officials said the emphasis on realistic mission-oriented training helps participating forces develop common operating procedures and improve coordination during multinational peacekeeping deployments.
Rehearsing Critical UN Peacekeeping Missions
The Indian contingent also participated in practical exercises involving checkpoint management, cordon and search operations, mob control, protection of United Nations installations, civilian evacuation procedures, and humanitarian assistance operations.
The drills replicated realistic scenarios encountered during UN peacekeeping missions, requiring troops to balance operational effectiveness with restraint, professionalism and strict adherence to international humanitarian principles.
Military officials noted that modern peacekeepers are expected not only to perform combat-related tasks but also to engage with local communities, facilitate humanitarian relief, protect vulnerable civilians and support post-conflict stabilisation efforts.
Sporting Events Build Camaraderie
Apart from operational training, soldiers of the JAT Regiment, representing the Indian Army contingent, showcased exceptional physical fitness and team spirit during multinational CrossFit and volleyball competitions organised as part of the exercise.
The Indian soldiers earned appreciation from participating contingents for their endurance, discipline and competitive performance. Beyond competition, the sporting events provided an important platform for fostering mutual trust, friendship and camaraderie among military personnel from different countries, strengthening interpersonal relationships that are essential during multinational operations.
India’s Strong Legacy in UN Peacekeeping
India remains one of the largest and most respected contributors to United Nations Peacekeeping Operations, having deployed more than 290,000 military personnel across over 50 UN missions since 1948. Indian peacekeepers have served in conflict zones across Africa, Asia, the Middle East and the Balkans, earning global recognition for their professionalism, courage and humanitarian service.
Exercise Khaan Quest provides an opportunity for the Indian Army to share its vast operational experience while learning best practices from partner nations operating under diverse military doctrines.
Strengthening Multinational Interoperability
Exercise Khaan Quest has evolved into one of the Asia-Pacific region’s premier multinational peacekeeping exercises. Hosted annually by the Mongolian Armed Forces with international participation, the exercise focuses on improving interoperability among participating militaries, standardising UN peacekeeping procedures and enhancing coordination during multinational humanitarian and security operations.
By operating alongside troops from various countries, the Indian Army gains valuable experience in multinational command structures, communication procedures and joint mission planning.
Reinforcing India’s Commitment to Global Peace
The continued participation of the Indian Army in Exercise Khaan Quest 2026 reflects India’s enduring commitment to global peace, international security and the principles of the United Nations. Through intensive operational training, professional exchanges and confidence-building activities, the Indian contingent continues to uphold the highest standards of military professionalism while contributing to the development of capable, cohesive and mission-ready multinational peacekeeping forces.
The exercise also reinforces India’s growing role as a responsible security partner committed to promoting stability, humanitarian values and international cooperation across the world.