A Collective Security Treaty Organisation exercise called Cobalt-2026 has kicked off in Tajikistan. The CSTO press service confirmed that units from member states' security agencies are taking part in the special drills. The exercise began on 18 October under the organisation's joint training programme. That programme spells out how command structures and force formations across the collective security system prepare for shared operations. Cobalt exercises traditionally centre on internal security scenarios, rehearsing how members would act together against threats inside the bloc's own borders. For Tajikistan, hosting the event carries real weight given the country's position in a restless region. Participants will run through coordination tasks designed to test how quickly national structures can work as one. Further detail on the scenario and the forces involved is expected as the exercise unfolds.