The Indian Air Force (IAF) contingent arrived back in India on 2 December, following the conclusion of the 8th edition of Exercise Garuda 2025, a major bilateral air exercise with France.
● Exercise Conducted in France
Exercise Garuda 2025 was held in France and formally concluded on 27 November. The bilateral engagement involved the IAF and the French Air and Space Force, strengthening operational cooperation and interoperability.
● IAF Deploys Su-30MKI, IL-78 and C-17 Aircraft
The IAF participated with a powerful fleet comprising:
- Su-30MKI fighter aircraft,
- IL-78 air-to-air refuelling aircraft, and
- C-17 Globemaster III transport aircraft.
These platforms enabled the conduct of diverse and high-intensity air operations.
● Complex Air Missions in Realistic Conditions
Both air forces executed a wide range of complex air operations in a realistic operational environment, including advanced aerial engagements, joint missions and strategic air mobility tasks.
● One of IAF’s Largest International Drills of 2025
The exercise was among the largest international air training engagements undertaken by the IAF this year, contributing significantly to enhancing mutual understanding and strengthening defence cooperation between India and France.
Source: AIR
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