Azerbaijan and Kazakhstan stage ‘Tarlan-2025’ drone drills in Azerbaijan

Azerbaijan and Kazakhstan have completed the 'Tarlan-2025' flight-tactical exercise, a series of unmanned-aircraft drills held in Azerbaijan and aimed at deepening defence ties between the two Caspian neighbours.

The manoeuvres, which culminated on Thursday, brought together UAV units and support teams from both armed forces at ranges across Azerbaijan. Leaders of the exercise told troops the joint training would “play a pivotal role in strengthening military co-operation” between Baku and Astana.

An opening ceremony earlier in the week began with a minute’s silence for servicemen killed in action, followed by the two national anthems. Commanders then briefed personnel on successive phases of the exercise, which tested reconnaissance, target-acquisition and strike missions using loitering munitions and surveillance drones.

Named after the Turkic word for 'falcon,' the Tarlan series has become the flagship bilateral drill since its launch in 2023. Defence analysts say this year’s focus on UAV tactics reflects both countries’ investment in indigenous drone manufacturing and the wider combat role such systems now play across the region.

Azerbaijan and Kazakhstan signed a framework defence pact in 2022 and have since expanded co-operation to include naval, cyber-security and peace-keeping activities. Officials from both capitals said additional joint training is planned later in 2025.

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