KAZIND-2026 joint training is in full swing at Oskemen, Kazakhstan, where troops of the Indian Army and the Kazakhstan Armed Forces are working through field drills, small arms live firing and combined combat exercises.

The ninth edition of the India-Kazakhstan joint military exercise runs from 28 September to 11 October 2026.

KAZIND-2026 joint training moves to live firing

The two contingents have carried out joint weapon handling and tactical training, followed by small arms live firing. Combined combat exercises came next, with Indian and Kazakh soldiers training side by side. The drills are aimed at sharpening battlefield skills and building closer coordination during integrated operations.

Both sides are also getting familiar with each other's tactics, techniques and procedures.

Tactical navigation exercise held at Akhmirovo Training Area

A tactical navigation exercise was conducted through the Akhmirovo Training Area. Soldiers honed their navigation skills and practised coordinated movement across varied terrain.

Joint physical training and sporting activities have also been held, building fitness and team spirit across the two contingents. The training is helping both forces exchange best practices and operational experience, and understand each other's training methods and operational procedures.

Indian contingent conducts joint Yoga session

The Indian contingent conducted a joint Yoga session with its Kazakh counterparts during KAZIND-2026 joint training, strengthening camaraderie between the troops.

Garhwal Rifles battalion leads the Indian contingent

The 60-member Indian contingent left for Kazakhstan on 28 September. It is drawn mainly from a battalion of the Garhwal Rifles, along with personnel of the Indian Air Force.

The exercise is centred on joint counter-terrorism operations, with emphasis on unmanned aerial systems and counter-UAS measures, according to the Ministry of Defence. Garhwal Rifles troops also trained with the US Army's 11th Airborne Division last month in jungle warfare and rappelling drills at Auli during Yudh Abhyas 2026.

Annual exercise alternates between India and Kazakhstan

KAZIND is held alternately in the two countries. The eighth edition was hosted at Aundh, Pune, in 2024. The Indian Army runs a similar annual training calendar with other partners in the region, including Nomadic Elephant with Mongolia.