India and EU Conduct First Joint Counter-Terrorism Exercise Against Drone Threats

India and the European Union (EU) recently concluded their first-ever joint counter-terrorism exercise, focusing specifically on threats posed by unmanned aerial systems (UAS), commonly known as drones. Held over three days at the National Security Guard (NSG) headquarters in Manesar, Haryana, the program brought together senior officers, instructors, and technical experts from India’s elite counter-terrorism unit, the NSG, and the EU’s High Risk Security Network (HRSN). This exercise marks a major step in enhancing collaborative security measures between India and European nations against evolving threats.

The three-day training programme concluded on Wednesday. (Representational image) | Hindustan Times

Objectives and Scope of the Exercise

The primary aim of the exercise was to bolster the capability of both India and EU to detect, track, and neutralize hostile drones targeting critical infrastructure and soft targets. Participants engaged in comprehensive training that integrated both tactical and technological approaches. The exercise covered advanced counter-UAS techniques and emphasized practical simulations to improve real-world responsiveness. It also focused on strengthening interoperability between the two forces, ensuring coordinated strategies and joint operational procedures in the face of drone-based threats.

The HRSN, which includes 28 specialized units from 21 EU member states, contributed its expertise in drone detection and neutralization technologies. By combining Indian tactical experience with EU technical knowledge, the exercise created a platform for sharing best practices and developing a unified approach to emerging security challenges.

Strategic Significance

EU Ambassador Hervé Delphin highlighted the importance of international cooperation in addressing deliberate drone-related threats, which continue to evolve rapidly as part of hybrid tactics. He noted that such exercises are crucial for preparing security forces to respond effectively and swiftly to prevent potential attacks. The collaboration reflects the commitment of both India and EU to translate strategic partnerships into practical outcomes, focusing on citizen safety and critical infrastructure protection.

Broader Implications

This joint exercise underscores the growing importance of drones in modern warfare and counter-terrorism scenarios. It also aligns with broader EU initiatives, such as the European Drone Defence Initiative, which seeks to develop continent-wide capabilities for detecting and neutralizing UAS threats. The collaboration between India and the EU signals a shared recognition that international partnerships are essential in addressing increasingly complex security challenges posed by emerging technologies.

Looking Ahead

The success of this joint training lays the foundation for future counter-terrorism collaboration between India and the EU. Both parties are expected to continue sharing knowledge, technology, and tactical expertise to enhance preparedness against drone threats. As drone technology evolves, such partnerships will play a critical role in ensuring robust and coordinated defense strategies, reinforcing global security frameworks.

The MGMM Outlook

India and European Union recently undertook their first joint counter-terrorism exercise focused on addressing the growing threat posed by drones. Conducted over three days at the National Security Guard headquarters in Manesar, the exercise brought together India’s elite counter-terrorism forces and experts from the EU’s High Risk Security Network. The program aimed to enhance the detection, tracking, and neutralization of hostile unmanned aerial systems targeting critical infrastructure and soft targets. By combining India’s tactical expertise with the EU’s technological capabilities, the exercise created a platform for sharing best practices and improving interoperability between the two forces, highlighting a practical translation of international strategic partnerships into on-ground preparedness.

The collaboration underscores the strategic importance of multinational cooperation in counter-terrorism, particularly against evolving threats from emerging technologies such as drones. EU representatives emphasized the need for swift and coordinated responses to potential drone attacks, while India’s participation reflects its growing role in global security initiatives. Beyond tactical readiness, this exercise signifies a commitment to developing unified approaches against hybrid threats, reinforcing the view that global security challenges demand collective, cross-border efforts. Such initiatives pave the way for stronger knowledge sharing, technology exchange, and sustained international partnerships to safeguard citizens and critical infrastructure.

(Sources: Hindustan Times, The Economic Times, The New Indian Express)