Exercise Garuda-25 Takes Off IAF Su-30MKI & French Rafale Begin Joint Missions

The Indo-French bilateral air exercise Garuda-25 has commenced with an impressive display of aerial power, as Indian Air Force (IAF) Su-30MKI fighter jets and French Air and Space Force Rafale aircraft

took to the skies for their first coordinated missions. The latest edition of the long-running defence exercise marks a significant step in strengthening the strategic partnership between India and France, showcasing their growing military cooperation and shared commitment to regional security.The inaugural missions saw both air forces executing complex aerial manoeuvres, formation flying, and coordinated tactical operations designed to enhance real-time decision-making and mission planning. Defence officials stated that the exercise provides a crucial platform for pilots and ground crews from both nations to refine air combat techniques, improve operational synergy, and exchange best practices in modern warfare doctrines.As the IAF's versatile Su-30MKI and the French Rafale renowned for its advanced avionics and multi-role capabilities fly together, the exercise will allow crews to gain deeper insight into each other’s operational philosophies. The joint drills are expected to include air-to-air combat, beyond-visual-range engagements, and coordinated strike missions, ensuring comprehensive exposure to diverse combat scenarios.Officials emphasized that Garuda-25 underscores the depth of the Indo-French defence relationship, which has grown steadily across areas such as aircraft procurement, technology collaboration, and military training. The exercise aims not only to boost interoperability but also to reaffirm both nations’ shared interest in maintaining stability and security in the Indo-Pacific and beyond.With participation from advanced fighter platforms and experienced aircrews on both sides, Garuda-25 stands as a testament to the mutual trust, operational cooperation, and strategic alignment between the two air forces. As the exercise progresses, it is expected to further strengthen defence ties and pave the way for enhanced collaboration in future joint operations, training missions, and defence initiatives.