Why in news?
The Indian Air Force (IAF) and the French Air and Space Force have begun the 8th edition of Exercise Garuda at the Mont-de- Marsan air base in France. The bilateral exercise, running from 16 to 27 November 2025, aims to sharpen air-combat skills and deepen strategic ties between the two countries.
Background
Exercise Garuda is a recurring air combat training series between India and France that began in 2003. It provides a realistic environment for pilots to practise aerial manoeuvres, air defence tactics and joint strike operations. The 2025 edition is being hosted by France at its Mont-de-Marsan base. The IAF contingent arrived on 10 November with Su-30MKI fighters, a C-17 Globemaster III transport aircraft and an IL-78 tanker.
Exercise details
- Aircraft: India has deployed Su-30MKI multirole fighters along with a C-17 heavy-lift aircraft and an IL-78 mid-air refueller. France is fielding Rafale F4 fighters and support aircraft. This mix allows pilots to practise dissimilar-aircraft combat and in-flight refuelling.
- Training scenarios: The exercise includes air defence missions, offensive counter-air operations, joint strikes and aerial refuelling. Pilots simulate beyond-visual-range engagements, dogfights, low-level ingress and precision bombing.
- Interoperability: Through shared briefings and de-briefings, both air forces refine common tactical procedures and learn from each other's best practices. The exercise also helps maintain the operational readiness of aircraft operating in different climates and conditions.
Significance
Exercise Garuda demonstrates the growing defence partnership between India and France. It supports the IAF's stated goal of integrating with friendly air forces for humanitarian missions, disaster response and security cooperation. The training also prepares Indian pilots to operate advanced fighters like Rafale in combined operations. The 2025 edition, coming soon after India's participation in France's Bastille Day parade, underscores the countries' shared commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific.
Sources: Press Information Bureau