Garuda Exercise: Indian Air Force and France Display Joint Air Power as Fighter Jets Roar Over France
Indian Air Force and France are showcasing their military strength to the world through the ongoing bilateral air exercise Garuda 2025, currently underway in France. Both nations’ air forces are conducting a wide range of high-intensity operations aimed at boosting synergy, interoperability, and combined combat readiness.
The Indian Air Force’s Media Coordination Center shared striking photos and videos on X, highlighting that the Indian Air Force and the French Air and Space Force are executing advanced mission profiles together. They emphasized that professionalism, precision, and seamless coordination continue to elevate this strategic partnership.
Exercises at Mont-de-Marsan Air Base, France
Now in its eighth edition, Exercise Garuda is being held at the Mont-de-Marsan Air Base from November 16 to 27. In a post on X, the Indian Air Force stated:
“Maintaining a high operational tempo, IAF and French crews are working jointly on diverse mission sets, demonstrating exceptional capability. Professionalism, synchronized action, and collaborative efforts are further enhancing interoperability and strengthening this bilateral bond.”
Aircraft Participating in the Exercise
India has deployed Su-30MKI fighter jets, C-17 Globemaster-III aircraft for logistics support, and IL-78 aerial refueling tankers. These are flying alongside advanced multirole fighter aircraft from France, enabling both sides to train in realistic and demanding air combat scenarios.
Missions Undertaken
The exercise features a wide spectrum of air operations, including:
- Air-to-air combat drills
- Air defense missions
- Joint strike operations
- Long-range missions
- Air-to-air refueling sorties
These missions aim to refine tactics and reinforce cooperation between the two air forces in a near-combat environment.
A Strong Signal on India–France Security Ties
India and France share a long-standing partnership across defense, nuclear cooperation, space, and the Indo-Pacific. Their joint counter-terrorism collaboration, formalized in 1998, continues to deepen. The Indian Air Force noted that exercises like Garuda not only enable the exchange of operational experience but also help shape future strategies for joint missions and enhanced cooperation.
News Source: Amar Ujala