New Delhi, March 30
Aiming to hone pilots' skills and exchange tactical knowledge, the Indian Air Force (IAF) will be participating in a biennial multinational air exercise INIOCHOS-25, starting in Greece from Monday, an official said.
The IAF contingent, including Su-30 MKI fighters along with combat enabler IL-78 and C-17 aircraft, will join the prestigious multinational air exercise hosted by the Hellenic Air Force. The exercise will take place at Andravida Air Base, Greece, from March 31 to April 11, 2025.
INIOCHOS is a biennial multinational air exercise hosted by the Hellenic Air Force. It serves as a platform for air forces to hone their skills, exchange tactical knowledge, and strengthen military ties.
The exercise will integrate multiple air and surface assets from fifteen countries under realistic combat scenarios, designed to simulate modern-day air warfare challenges, said a statement.
The IAF is participating in Exercise INIOCHOS 25 to enhance international cooperation, synergy and interoperability among participating Air Forces.
An official said the exercise will provide an opportunity to train in planning and executing Combined Air operations, refine tactics in complex air warfare scenarios, and gain insights into operational best practices.
With all operations conducted from Andravida, IAF's participation will not only strengthen its operational capabilities but also contribute to mutual learning and enhanced coordination among participating countries.
The IAF's participation in INIOCHOS-25 reflects its commitment to global defence cooperation and operational excellence. The exercise will further reinforce India's strategic partnerships-and bolster its capabilities in joint operations with friendly nations, said the statement.
In October last year, the IAF undertook the 12th Joint Military Training (JMT) with the Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF) at Air Force Station Kalaikunda, West Bengal.
The RSAF participated with its largest contingent till date, comprising aircrew and support personnel from F-16, F-15 squadrons along with G-550 Airborne Early Warning and Control (AEW&C) and C-130 aircraft. The IAF participated with Rafale, Mirage 2000 ITI, Su-30 MKI, Tejas, MiG-29 and Jaguar aircraft.
— IANS
Reader Comments
Proud moment for India! Our Su-30 MKIs are among the best in the world. These exercises are crucial for our pilots to learn from others and showcase our capabilities 🇮🇳✈ï¸
While I appreciate these international collaborations, I wonder if we could focus more on indigenous platforms like Tejas in such exercises. Would give better exposure to our homegrown tech.
The IAF has been really stepping up its international engagements lately. First Singapore, now Greece. Great way to build strategic relationships beyond our immediate neighborhood.
My brother is an IAF pilot and he says these exercises are game-changers for operational readiness. The realistic combat scenarios help prepare for actual situations better than regular training.
Interesting to see the IL-78 and C-17 going along too. Often we focus just on fighters, but logistics and support aircraft are equally important in real operations. Smart move by IAF planners!
Greece has some excellent airspace for training - varied terrain and weather conditions. Our pilots will definitely come back with valuable experience. Wishing them safe flights!
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