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India-France Garuda 25: Su-30MKI and Rafale Jets in Joint Air Combat Drills

The Indian Air Force has sent a frontline contingent to France for Exercise Garuda 25. This bilateral exercise features IAF's Su-30MKI training alongside French Rafale jets. The drills include air combat manoeuvring and coordinated strike operations in realistic scenarios. This marks another step in strengthening defense cooperation between India and France.

Key Points: IAF Su-30MKI Joins French Rafale Jets in Garuda 25 Exercise

  • IAF deploys Su-30MKI fighters alongside French Rafale jets in joint exercises
  • Advanced air combat missions include simulated high-threat environments
  • C-17 and IL-78 aircraft provide crucial logistical support
  • Exercise strengthens Indo-French strategic partnership through military cooperation
2 min read

Garuda 25: IAF to participate in 8th edition of bilateral air exercise with French Air and Space Force

Indian Air Force deploys Su-30MKI fighters to France for bilateral Exercise Garuda 25, training alongside French Rafale jets to enhance interoperability and combat readiness.

"The exercise will further enhance interoperability, foster exchange of best practices, and strengthen defence cooperation between the two Air Forces - Indian Air Force"

New Delhi, Nov 16

The Indian Air Force (IAF) has deployed a frontline contingent to France for the 8th edition of the bilateral air Exercise Garuda 25, being conducted with the French Air and Space Force (FASF) at Mont-de-Marsan Air Base from November 16 to 27 .

The IAF team arrived in France on November 10, marking the start of an intensive joint training schedule aimed at enhancing operational synergy between the two strategic partners.

This year’s exercise features the IAF’s Su-30MKI fighter aircraft, which will train alongside the FASF’s multi-role Rafale jets in a series of advanced air combat missions.

The IAF’s operational deployment is supported by C-17 Globemaster III transport aircraft for induction and disembarkation, while IL-78 air-to-air refueling tankers are extending the range and endurance of the participating fighters.

The exercise will encompass air combat manoeuvring, air defence missions, and coordinated strike operations in simulated high-threat environments designed to mirror real-world operational challenges.

Earlier on Thursday, the Indian Air Force posted on X: “Exercise #Garuda25: An Indian Air Force contingent has landed at Mont-de-Marsan Air Base, France, to participate in the bilateral air exercise with the French Air and Space Force from 16–27 Nov 25.”

“Su-30 MKI aircraft of the IAF and Rafale fighters of the FASF will engage in a simulated combat environment, showcasing the prowess and professionalism of both Air Forces. The exercise will further enhance interoperability, foster exchange of best practices, and strengthen defence cooperation between the two Air Forces,” the post added.

Garuda 25 remains a cornerstone of Indo-French military cooperation, offering both air forces an opportunity to refine tactics, enhance mission-planning skills, and strengthen interoperability in a realistic operational setting.

Meanwhile, in a parallel international engagement, another IAF contingent, featuring the Suryakiran Aerobatic Team (SKAT) and Tejas fighter aircraft, has arrived at Al Maktoum Airbase, Dubai, for the Dubai Airshow 2025 scheduled from November 17 to 21.

The deployment highlights India’s growing defence-diplomacy footprint. The event is set to host over 1,500 exhibitors, 490 delegations, and more than 200 aircraft, with the IAF performing alongside elite teams such as the Saudi Hawks, Russian Knights, and the UAE’s Al Fursan.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

P
Priya S
While these exercises are important, I hope we're also focusing on indigenous development. The Tejas participation in Dubai Airshow is encouraging, but we need more Made in India fighters in such international exercises.
R
Rohit P
France has been a reliable defence partner for India. The Garuda series exercises have really helped improve our air combat capabilities. Looking forward to seeing the results of this year's training! 🛩️
M
Michael C
Impressive deployment! The C-17 and IL-78 support shows how professional our logistics chain has become. This kind of long-range operational capability is crucial for a country of India's size and strategic requirements.
S
Sarah B
The Dubai Airshow participation alongside the Garuda exercise demonstrates India's growing defence diplomacy. Good to see our air force maintaining multiple international engagements simultaneously.
K
Karthik V
Hope the exercise includes realistic scenarios that our pilots might face in actual combat situations. The "simulated high-threat environments" mentioned sound promising. Our brave IAF personnel deserve the best training! 🙏

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