Exercise KHANJAR 2026 has commenced on 04 February 2026 at Missamari in Sonitpur district of Assam.
- The 13th edition of the India-Kyrgyzstan Joint Special Forces Exercise KHANJAR took place from 04 to 17 February 2026.
Exercise KHANJAR 2026 Contingents:
Indian Army contingent:
The Indian Army contingent comprised of 20 personnel, represented by troops from the Parachute Regiment (Special Forces).
Kyrgyzstan Army contingent:
Kyrgyzstan also had an equal strength contingent, represented by the ILBRIS Special Forces Brigade.
Objective:
- The aim of this 14-day military exercise was to share best practices and experiences in Counter Terrorism and Special Forces Operations in urban and mountainous terrain.
- The exercise also focused on developing advanced Special Forces skills of sniping, complex building intervention and mountain craft.
About Exercise KHANJAR:
- Exercise KHANJAR is an annual training event.
- It has been conducted alternatively between India and Kyrgyzstan since 2011.
- The 12th edition was held in Kyrgyzstan in March 2025. It included intensive exercises in sniping, complex building intervention, mountain craft and specialized counter‑terrorism drills, alongside high‑altitude operations and cultural exchanges.
Exercise KHANJAR provides an opportunity for both sides to fortify defence ties while addressing common concerns of international terrorism and extremism. The exercise reaffirms the commitment of India and Kyrgyzstan towards fostering peace, stability and security in the region.