The Indian Army contingent set off for the Multinational Military Exercise KHAAN QUEST, scheduled to take place from July 27 to August 9, 2024, in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia. This annual exercise aims to bring together military forces from around the world to collaborate and enhance their peacekeeping capabilities.
Exercise KHAAN QUEST began as a bilateral event between the USA and Mongolian Armed Forces in 2003. It evolved into a Multinational Peacekeeping Exercise in 2006, and this year marks its 21st iteration. The previous edition was conducted from June 19 to July 2, 2023, in Mongolia.
The Indian contingent comprises 40 personnel, primarily from a Battalion of the MADRAS REGIMENT, along with members from other arms and services. The contingent also includes one woman officer and two women soldiers, highlighting the inclusive nature of the Indian Army.
The primary aim of Exercise KHAAN QUEST is to prepare the Indian Armed Forces for peacekeeping missions in a multinational environment, thereby increasing interoperability and military readiness in peace support operations under Chapter VII of the United Nations Charter. The exercise emphasizes high physical fitness, joint planning, and joint tactical drills.
Participants will practice various tactical drills, including the establishment of static and mobile checkpoints, cordon and search operations, patrolling, evacuation of civilians from hostile areas, counter-improvised explosive device drills, combat first aid, and casualty evacuation.
Exercise KHAAN QUEST allows participating countries to share best practices in tactics, techniques, and procedures for conducting joint operations. It aims to develop interoperability, camaraderie, and mutual understanding among soldiers from different nations, fostering a spirit of cooperation and unity in peacekeeping efforts.
