Indian Air Force Strengthens Strategic Ties with France in Bilateral Exercise Garuda 25

India and France continue to nurture their longstanding cordial and friendly relations through military cooperation.

New Delhi:

The Indian Air Force (IAF) is currently engaged in the eighth edition of the bilateral air exercise 'Garuda 25' with the French Air and Space Force (FASF) at Mont-de-Marsan, France, scheduled from November 16-27, according to an official statement released by the Ministry of Defence on Saturday.

The Defence Ministry confirmed that the IAF contingent arrived in France on November 10 and is participating with Su-30MKI fighter aircraft. For the induction and de-induction phases of the exercise, C-17 Globemaster III aircraft are providing airlift support, while IL-78 air-to-air refueling tankers are being deployed to extend the range and endurance of the participating fighter aircraft.

During Exercise Garuda 25, the IAF's Su-30MKI aircraft will conduct operations alongside French multirole fighters in sophisticated simulated air combat scenarios. These exercises will focus on air-to-air combat, air defence operations, and joint strike missions. The primary objective is to refine tactical procedures in a realistic operational environment, facilitating mutual learning and enhancing interoperability between the IAF and FASF.

The exercise also serves as a platform for professional interaction, operational knowledge exchange, and sharing best practices between the two air forces. The IAF's participation highlights its dedication to constructive engagement with friendly foreign air forces through multilateral exercises, thereby promoting mutual understanding and cooperation in aerial operations.

India and France have historically maintained close and friendly diplomatic relations, sharing a comprehensive Strategic Partnership (SP) that encompasses all aspects of bilateral cooperation with a significant strategic component. Established on January 26, 1998, India's first Strategic Partnership was designed to enhance the strategic independence of both nations through robust bilateral cooperation.

Defence and security collaboration, civil nuclear cooperation, and space programs form the core pillars of strategic cooperation between India and France, which has now expanded to include a substantial Indo-Pacific dimension.