The 19th edition of the annual bilateral military exercise, Exercise Suryakiran XIX, commenced on November 25 and will run until December 8, 2025, in Pithoragarh, Uttarakhand, involving an Indian contingent of 334 personnel, primarily from the Assam Regiment, and an equal number from the Nepal Army’s Devi Datta Regiment. This exercise aims to enhance operational synergy in jungle warfare and counter-terrorism operations, focusing on incorporating niche technologies such as Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) and AI-enabled decision support tools to improve interoperability and refine tactics. It also emphasizes humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HADR) efforts, fostering bilateral relations and trust between the two nations. India’s consistent role in supporting the modernization of the Nepal Army and its active participation in regional stability initiatives, such as disaster response during the 2015 earthquake, underscores the strategic importance of this collaboration in promoting peace and security in the region. The exercise not only strengthens military capabilities but also reflects the longstanding commitment of both nations towards mutual cooperation and stability.