Indian Defence Review

The French Air Force Rafale aircraft participating in Ex Garuda-V at Jodhpur lined up on the tarmac prior to an Operational Mission.

With the aim of enhancing  Operational Co-operation and to validate capabilities, the Indian Air Force  & French Air Force  commenced the bilateral exercise “Ex Garuda V” at Jodhpur Air Base today.  During this fortnight long exercise both the Air Forces would engage in Operations based on their Operational Philosophy and methodology of operations practicing various challenging air situation scenarios. The Exercise would help both Air Forces in appreciating the intricacies of planning and conduct of combat missions in an Operational Environment.

Frontline fighter aircraft of the IAF including the SU 30, Mig-27  (UPG), Mig 21 Bison and force multipliers such as the AWACS and Flight Refueller Aircraft IL 78 would be participating from the Indian Air Force while the French AF has fielded their frontline Rafale Fighter aircraft along with their KC 135 Refueller.

French Air Force Pilot being received by an IAF Official on his arrival at Jodhpur for Exercise Garuda-V

The Fifth Indo-French bilateral Air Exercise “Garuda-V” is scheduled from 2-13 June at Air Force Station Jodhpur. The previous edition of the exercise was held at Istres, France during 2010. The exercise will involve the assets of IAF’s main operational formations including the Gandhinagar based South Western Air Command and  Allahabad based Central Air Command.

During the war game, both the Air Forces will practice aerial warfare which would include maneuvers to carry out surgical strikes.