The Indian Air Force (IAF) contingent returned to India on the 2nd of this month after the culmination of the 8th edition of Exercise Garuda. The Defence Ministry in a statement informed that this exercise was a bilateral Indo-French air exercise between the IAF and the French Air and Space Force which concluded in France, on 27th of the last month. The Ministry also said that during the exercise, the IAF participated with Su-30MKI fighters, supported by IL-78 air-to-air refuelling aircraft and C-17 Globemaster III transport aircraft. It added that both the air forces conducted a range of complex air operations in a realistic operational environment. The training involved joint mission planning coordinated execution of strike and escort missions and familiarisation with each other’s operational procedures, thereby enhancing interoperability.
The Exercise was one of the largest international air training engagements undertaken by the IAF this year. It reaffirmed the strong strategic partnership between India and France. The Ministry further said that the lessons learnt from the exercise will enhance the IAF’s war-fighting capabilities and strengthen jointmanship with friendly foreign air forces.
