The Khaan Quest 2026 multinational peacekeeping exercise opened on June 20 at the Peace Support Operations Training Center at the Five Hills Training Area (Tavantolgoi) near Ulaanbaatar, where the national flags of 18 participating countries were raised in support of global peace and security.

Originally launched as a bilateral field training exercise between Mongolia and the United States within the framework of defense cooperation, Khaan Quest has expanded steadily over the years into an internationally recognized multinational exercise. This year marks the 20th anniversary of the exercise, reflecting the sustained contributions of the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command, partner countries, international organizations, and generations of organizers who have supported its development.

More than 1,100 military personnel from 18 countries are participating in this year’s exercise. Training activities are being conducted in three main areas: command-post exercises, field training exercises, and specialized professional training. In response to evolving security challenges, the program also includes training and practical exercises related to the use of unmanned aerial systems.

Khaan Quest holds an important place in Mongolia’s foreign policy, promoting peace, cooperation, friendly relations, and diplomatic approaches to conflict resolution. The exercise also contributes significantly to enhancing the training, preparedness, and operational capabilities of the Mongolian Armed Forces, while strengthening the knowledge, skills, and experience of peacekeepers from around the world.

The opening ceremony was attended by Mongolia’s Minister of Defense Batlut Damba, Chief of the General Staff of the Armed Forces Lieutenant General Ganbyamba Sunrev, senior officials from the Ministry of Defense and the General Staff, heads of military and law-enforcement organizations, military commanders, ambassadors and defense attachés accredited to Mongolia, representatives of the media, and more than 1,100 service members from the participating countries.

Opening remarks were delivered by Lieutenant General George Rowell, Deputy Commander of the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command, and U.S. Ambassador to Mongolia Richard Buangan. They highly commended the contributions of Mongolian peacekeepers to international peacekeeping operations.

Published Date:2026-06-23