Mont-de-Marsan [France], November 27 (ANI): The Indian Air Force (IAF) and the French Air and Space Force (FASF) have been executing multiple mission profiles to deepen interoperability as the bilateral Exercise Garuda 2025 continues in full swing.
Sharing details in a post on X, the IAF’s media coordination center said, “#ExerciseGaruda25: Maintaining a high operational tempo, the Indian Air Force and French Air and Space Force crew are working seamlessly together, executing varied mission profiles and showcasing outstanding proficiency.” The post highlighted the professionalism, precision, and cohesive teamwork strengthening the bilateral partnership.
The eighth edition of Exercise Garuda is being held at Mont-de-Marsan, France, from November 16 to 27, as confirmed by the Ministry of Defence in an official statement. Airlift support is being provided by the C-17 Globemaster III for the induction and de-induction phases of the exercise, while IL-78 air-to-air refueling tankers are extending the range and endurance of participating fighters.
According to the ministry, the exercise features the IAF’s Su-30MKI fighters operating alongside French multirole aircraft in complex simulated air combat scenarios. The missions focus on air-to-air engagements, air defense operations, and coordinated strike missions. The exercise aims to refine tactics and procedures in a realistic operational environment, enabling mutual learning and strengthening interoperability between the IAF and the FASF.
Exercise Garuda 2025 also provides opportunities for professional interaction, exchange of operational knowledge, and sharing of best practices between the two air forces. Participation underscores the IAF’s commitment to constructive engagement with friendly foreign air forces through multilateral exercises, promoting mutual understanding and cooperation in air operations.
India and France have long enjoyed close and friendly relations built on a deep and enduring Strategic Partnership launched on January 26, 1998. This partnership encompasses all aspects of bilateral cooperation, including a strong strategic component. Defense and security, civil nuclear matters, and space cooperation constitute the principal pillars of this partnership, which now includes a significant Indo-Pacific dimension. (ANI)
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