New Delhi, Nov 13 (NationPress) A contingent from the Indian Air Force (IAF) has arrived at Mont-de-Marsan Air Base in France to engage in a bilateral air exercise alongside the French Air and Space Force (FASF), scheduled from November 16 to 25, according to an official announcement made on Thursday.

According to the IAF official on X, the Su-30 MKI aircraft from the IAF will partake in simulated combat scenarios alongside Rafale fighters from the FASF, demonstrating the capabilities and professionalism of both air forces under the banner of Exercise #Garuda25.

The exercise aims to improve interoperability, promote the exchange of best practices, and enhance defense collaboration between the two air forces, the official stated.

In the previous year, the joint air drill Ex Garuda VII showcased combined operations led by the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS) of the IAF, Air Chief Marshal V.R. Chaudhari, and the FASF head, General Stéphane Mille.

During this exercise, the CAS flew a sortie in an IAF Rafale fighter, while the FASF Chief took to the skies in an IAF Su-30MKI. Both participated in a joint training mission originating from Air Force Station Jodhpur.

Ex Garuda VII also marked the inaugural participation of the LCA Tejas and LCH Prachand in an international exercise.

This exercise featured four FASF Rafale fighters and one A-330 Multi Role Tanker Transport (MRTT) aircraft.

In addition to the LCA and LCH, the IAF contingent included Su-30 MKI, Rafale, and Jaguar fighter aircraft, along with Mi-17 helicopters. The contingent further comprised Combat Enabling Assets such as Flight Refuelling Aircraft, AWACS, AEW&C, and Garud Special Forces.

According to an official, Ex Garuda presents a unique opportunity for both air forces to absorb each other's best operational practices.

The official emphasized the increasing interoperability between the two air forces, which has evolved with each successive edition of this exercise, a regular bilateral event since 2003.

India and France conduct three biennial training exercises: Exercise GARUDA with the Indian Air Force, Exercise VARUNA with the Indian Navy, and Exercise SHAKTI with the Indian Army.