The Indian Army contingent reached Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia today for the Multinational Military Exercise KHAAN QUEST, which is scheduled to be conducted from 14th to 28th June 2025.Â
Military Exercise Khaan Quest 2025
Multinational Military Exercise KHAAN QUEST 2025: Indian Army Contingent Arrives in Mongolia
The Indian Army contingent has arrived in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia, to participate in the prestigious Multinational Military Exercise KHAAN QUEST 2025, scheduled to be held from 14th to 28th June 2025. This annual exercise aims to strengthen global peacekeeping efforts by bringing together armed forces from multiple nations to train and collaborate under a unified framework.
Background and Significance
Exercise KHAAN QUEST began in 2003 as a bilateral military exercise between the United States and the Mongolian Armed Forces. Over the years, its scope has expanded significantly. Since 2006, it has evolved into a full-fledged Multinational Peacekeeping Exercise, with 2025 marking the 22nd edition of this internationally acclaimed event. The previous edition took place in Mongolia from 27th July to 9th August 2024.
Indian Army’s Participation
The Indian contingent for KHAAN QUEST 2025 comprises 40 personnel, predominantly from a battalion of the Kumaon Regiment, supported by troops from other arms and services. In a significant step towards gender inclusion, the contingent also includes one woman officer and two women soldiers, highlighting India’s commitment to increased participation of women in peacekeeping operations.
Objective and Scope of the Exercise
The primary objective of KHAAN QUEST 2025 is to enhance the peacekeeping capabilities of the participating forces while improving interoperability in a multinational setting. The exercise is designed to prepare contingents for United Nations peace support operations, specifically under Chapter VII of the UN Charter, which pertains to actions with respect to threats to peace, breaches of peace, and acts of aggression.
Training Modules and Tactical Drills
Participants will undergo rigorous training and engage in a variety of tactical drills and joint planning exercises, including:
- Establishment of Static and Mobile Check Points
- Cordon and Search Operations
- Patrolling and Evacuation of Civilians from conflict zones
- Counter-IED (Improvised Explosive Device) drills
- Combat First Aid and Casualty Evacuation
These drills are aimed at promoting a high degree of physical fitness, precision in joint tactical operations, and effective collaboration in humanitarian and conflict-resolution scenarios.
Promoting Cooperation and Camaraderie
Beyond training, Exercise KHAAN QUEST serves as a platform for participating nations to exchange best practices in military operations, tactics, techniques, and procedures. It fosters military-to-military cooperation, mutual trust, and shared values, enhancing the bonds of friendship and professionalism among the forces.
Defence Exercise
•Joint defence exercises code-named Nomadic Elephant.
•India is also an active participant in an annual week-long joint training exercise called the Khaan Quest, hosted by Mongolia.
Conclusion
India’s participation in KHAAN QUEST 2025 reaffirms its steadfast commitment to global peace and security. By engaging in multinational peacekeeping initiatives and promoting gender-inclusive participation, the Indian Army continues to strengthen its role as a responsible and capable force on the international stage.
