IAF, French Air Force Begin ‘Garuda-25’ to Strengthen Joint Combat Readiness
8th edition of Indo–French air drill focuses on interoperability, advanced air combat training, and strategic cooperation.
New Delhi, Nov 18 : The Indian Air Force (IAF) has officially launched Exercise Garuda-25, a major bilateral air exercise with the French Air and Space Force (FASF), marking another significant step in the expanding defence partnership between India and France.
Announcing the commencement on X, the IAF posted:
“#ExerciseGaruda25 takes off. Indian Air Force Su-30MKI and French Air and Space Force Rafale aircraft soared into the skies, commencing coordinated missions as part of the bilateral air exercise. The engagement reinforces strong interoperability and deep defence cooperation between the two Air Forces.”
The 8th edition of Exercise Garuda is being conducted at Mont-de-Marsan, France, from November 16 to 27, the Ministry of Defence confirmed.
As part of the deployment, the IAF’s C-17 Globemaster III aircraft are providing airlift support during the induction and de-induction phases, while IL-78 mid-air refuelling tankers are enhancing the range and endurance of the participating fighters.
This year’s exercise brings the IAF’s Su-30MKI fighters together with French multirole aircraft in complex and realistic air combat simulations. The missions include air-to-air engagements, air defence operations, and coordinated strike scenarios, enabling both forces to refine tactics, share knowledge, and improve operational synergy.
The Ministry noted that Exercise Garuda-25 serves as a platform for professional interaction, exchange of best practices, and deepening interoperability between the two air forces. The IAF’s participation reflects its commitment to strengthening ties with friendly foreign forces through regular bilateral and multilateral exercises.
India and France share a long-standing Strategic Partnership, established in 1998. Defence, security, civil nuclear cooperation, space collaboration, and an expanding Indo-Pacific engagement form key pillars of this partnership.
