NEW DELHI, June 25 (ANI) — The 23rd edition of the multinational joint military exercise Khaan Quest 2026 is underway at the Five Hills Training Area in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia, bringing together more than 1,000 troops from 18 countries, according to the Ministry of Defence.
This year’s exercise also marks the 20th anniversary of one of the world’s largest peacekeeping training exercises.
The Indian Army contingent comprises 40 personnel, including troops from a battalion of the JAT Regiment and personnel from other arms and services. The contingent is actively participating in intensive joint peacekeeping drills in a multinational environment.
Conducted under a United Nations mandate, the exercise is aimed at enhancing interoperability, communication, and coordinated responses in complex operational scenarios.
As part of the training program, Indian Army personnel are rehearsing a range of tactical drills, including checkpoint procedures, patrolling, cordon-and-search operations, mob control, protection of U.N. assets, humanitarian assistance to civilians, combat first aid, and casualty evacuation.
The contingent is also participating in the “Women, Peace and Security” segment of the exercise, which focuses on gender-sensitive peacekeeping, civilian protection, community engagement, and inclusive approaches in conflict and post-conflict environments.
According to the Ministry of Defence, the exercise provides an important platform for participating nations to exchange best practices in tactics, techniques, and procedures related to peace support operations.
The joint training environment is helping soldiers develop mutual understanding, confidence, and mission readiness required for multinational U.N. peacekeeping deployments.
Drawing on India’s long-standing experience in U.N. peacekeeping missions, including the contributions of women peacekeepers, the Indian Army contingent is demonstrating high standards of professionalism, discipline, and operational preparedness.
The ministry said Exercise Khaan Quest 2026 reflects the Indian Army’s continued commitment to global peace, stability, and international cooperation while contributing to the development of capable and mission-ready multinational contingents.
The exercise is being conducted from June 20 through July 3 at the Five Hills Training Area near Ulaanbaatar.
According to the Ministry of Defence, the exercise brings together military forces from around the world to strengthen collaboration and interoperability in peace support operations conducted under Chapter VII of the United Nations Charter.
The previous edition of the exercise was held in Mongolia from June 14 to June 28, 2025.
Khaan Quest began in 2003 as a bilateral exercise between the United States and the Mongolian Armed Forces. In 2006, it evolved into a multinational peacekeeping exercise, with the 2026 event marking its 23rd edition.
India’s participation reflects its continued commitment to global peacekeeping efforts and its strategic partnership with Mongolia. (ANI)
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