EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
The 20-member Mongolian Command and Staff College Officers delegation’s visit to the Centre for Land Warfare Studies (CLAWS) is a sign of increasing understanding and strengthening dialogue on the security and defence partnerships between India and Mongolia. The primary objective of this delegation visit is to explore ways to enhance bilateral defence ties, particularly in military education, cyber security, urban warfare, and mountain and cold-region warfare while fostering knowledge-sharing on military training, technology, and doctrinal innovations. The discussion reaffirmed that with both countries facing some similar security challenges and there is a need for effective defence in extreme terrains—this engagement underscores the shared mutual interests of India and Mongolia.
The visit aligns with the broader goal of fostering mutual understanding and addressing contemporary defence challenges. Key themes discussed included the growing importance of the strategic partnership in the context of shifting geopolitical dynamics in Asia, particularly amidst Mongolia’s both big and only two neighbours engaged in military conflicts with Russia (with Ukraine) and China (in the South China Sea). Mongolia’s geographical position between Russia and China has led it to seek reliable partners, with India being recognised as a trusted partner due to shared values of neutrality and non-aggression. India and Mongolia emphasised collaboration in defence training, joint exercises (like the annual Nomadic Elephant), and leveraging India’s defence industry to support Mongolia’s defence modernisation efforts. India’s increasing defence capabilities and technological innovations provide Mongolia with an opportunity to modernise its military within a sustainable and cost-effective framework.
Highlights of the discussions also focused on:
India-Mongolia Strategic Partnership: Deepening ties amidst regional power dynamics and a shared commitment to peace.
Defence Collaboration: Exploring joint operational experiences in mountain and cold-region warfare, and the sharing of doctrinal insights.
Training and Technology Transfer: Leveraging India’s defence industry to support Mongolia’s defence modernisation through affordable and innovative solutions.
The visit has facilitated open communication and perspectives on the importance of capacity building, with potential for further defence procurement, and joint training exercises in the future. The Mongolian delegation’s visit to CLAWS contributes to a deeper understanding and knowledge sharing on more resilient partnership, shared values, strategic interests, and a common vision for long-term peace and stability.
