Learning to Fight in the Desert: Uzbekistan and Russia Launch Joint Military Exercises

The Uzbek-Russian Hamkorlik-2025 military exercise has started in Uzbekistan.

The Uzbek Defense Ministry stated that the exercises are being conducted at the Termez training ground of the Southwestern Military District.

The exercises are dedicated to a scenario: “Special actions of troops to destroy illegal armed groups”.

In particular, it was noted that these exercises are important for improving the ability to conduct combat operations in the desert.

The primary objectives of these exercises are to foster interstate military cooperation, enhance management skills in the preparation and execution of special operations, exchange experiences in the planning and conduct of joint military operations, and coordinate the execution of modern tactical actions.

The exercise involves special units with about 400 military personnel.

The Russian side is participating with its military equipment.

The ten-day exercise is being held in accordance with the military cooperation plan signed between the two countries.

Recently, Uzbekistan’s military cooperation with Russia has significantly intensified and become more structured.

On January 22, 2025, the Ministers of Defense of Russia and Uzbekistan signed a plan of cooperation for 2025, which outlines 50 joint military activities in various areas, ranging from exercises to the exchange of experience.

Meanwhile, a strategic cooperation program for 2026-2030 was concluded to deepen the partnership. Last year, Russia offered to establish drone production in Uzbekistan.

At the same time, a 25-year-old Uzbek citizen was recently sentenced to five years in prison for participating in the war on the side of Russia against Ukraine. He was found guilty of mercenarism.