Exercise Garuda 25 concludes, strengthening Indo-French air force cooperation

The 8th edition of Exercise Garuda, a bilateral air exercise between the Indian Air Force (IAF) and the French Air and Space Force (FASF), officially concluded on 27 November 2025 at Air Base 118 in Mont-de-Marsan, France. Following the end of the exercise, the IAF contingent returned to India on 02 December 2025 after completing all operational and logistical formalities.

Exercise Garuda has been held for the past eight years, rotating between India and France, and aims to enhance interoperability, operational readiness, and mutual understanding between the two air forces. Over the years, the exercise has evolved into one of the most significant bilateral air training engagements for both nations.

During the 2025 edition, the IAF deployed Su-30MKI fighters, supported by IL-78 air-to-air refuelling aircraft and C-17 Globemaster III transport aircraft, while the French Air and Space Force contributed its own fighter jets, including Rafale aircraft. Rafale jets operated by both India and France formed a key common platform during the exercise, allowing pilots from both nations to compare tactics, share best practices, and enhance platform-specific interoperability. Both air forces conducted complex air operations in a realistic operational environment, including joint mission planning, coordinated strike and escort missions, and familiarisation with each other’s operational procedures.

The exercise provided an opportunity for participants to learn best practices, understand each other’s tactics, and improve operational coordination. IAF maintenance crews ensured high aircraft serviceability, enabling smooth conduct of all planned missions. Senior officials from both nations praised the professionalism, discipline, and commitment demonstrated by the personnel during the closing ceremony.

Air exercises like Garuda serve multiple purposes: they enhance combat readiness, strengthen bilateral strategic ties, test new operational tactics, and prepare forces for joint missions in diverse scenarios. Such exercises also provide valuable operational insights that help modern air forces improve capabilities and ensure preparedness for real-world contingencies.

Exercise Garuda 25 reaffirmed the strong strategic partnership between India and France and is expected to further enhance the IAF’s war-fighting capabilities while strengthening joint operations with friendly foreign air forces.