The Indian Army is participating in the 23rd edition of the multinational military exercise Khaan Quest 2026, currently being held at the Five Hills Training Area in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia. The exercise, one of the world’s largest peacekeeping training events, has brought together more than 1,000 military personnel from 18 countries.

This year’s edition is particularly significant as it marks the 20th anniversary of the multinational peacekeeping exercise, which focuses on improving coordination and operational effectiveness among participating nations in United Nations-mandated missions.

Indian Contingent Engaged In Joint Peacekeeping Drills

The Indian contingent consists of 40 personnel, led by troops from a battalion of the JAT Regiment and supported by soldiers from other Arms and Services of the Indian Army.

According to the Ministry of Defence, the contingent is actively participating in a series of intensive peacekeeping exercises designed to strengthen interoperability, communication and coordinated responses in challenging operational environments.

The training is being conducted in accordance with United Nations mandates and aims to prepare participating forces for multinational peace support operations.

Focus On Tactical And Humanitarian Operations

During the exercise, Indian Army personnel are undertaking a range of tactical drills that mirror real-world peacekeeping scenarios.

These include checkpoint management procedures, patrol operations, cordon and search missions, crowd and mob control measures, protection of United Nations assets, humanitarian assistance activities, combat first aid and casualty evacuation exercises.

The contingent is also taking part in the “Women, Peace and Security” segment of the exercise, which focuses on gender-sensitive peacekeeping practices, civilian protection, community engagement and inclusive approaches to conflict and post-conflict situations.

The Ministry of Defence said the exercise offers an opportunity for participating nations to exchange best practices, operational techniques and procedures related to peace support missions.

Building Readiness For UN Missions

The multinational training environment is intended to enhance mutual understanding among participating forces and improve their ability to operate together during future UN peacekeeping deployments.

Drawing on India’s extensive experience in United Nations peacekeeping missions, including its longstanding contribution of women peacekeepers, the Indian Army contingent is showcasing its operational expertise and professionalism throughout the exercise.

The ministry noted that participation in Khaan Quest 2026 reflects India’s continued commitment to international peace, stability and cooperation, while helping build mission-ready multinational contingents capable of responding to complex security challenges.

Exercise Has Grown Into Major Multinational Event

Khaan Quest 2026 is being conducted from June 20 to July 3 at the Five Hills Training Area near Ulaanbaatar.

According to the Ministry of Defence, the exercise is designed to enhance interoperability among military forces participating in peace support operations conducted under Chapter VII of the United Nations Charter.

The previous edition was held in Mongolia from June 14 to June 28, 2025.

The exercise began in 2003 as a bilateral training initiative between the United States and the Mongolian Armed Forces. In 2006, it expanded into a multinational peacekeeping exercise and has since evolved into one of the leading international platforms for training troops for UN operations.

India’s participation in the exercise underscores its strategic partnership with Mongolia and its longstanding commitment to supporting global peacekeeping efforts through the United Nations.

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