US and India Start Joint Air Force Drills

The objective of the exercise is to enhance mutual understanding between the IAF and the USAF and share their best practices. The opening phase of the exercise will focus on air mobility and will involve transport aircraft and Special Forces from both air forces, with the C-130J and C-17 aircraft being used by both sides. The USAF will also operate an MC-130J. Japanese Air Self Defence Force aircrew will participate as observers. The exercise is being held after a gap of four years, having been postponed due to the Covid-19 pandemic. The Su-30MKI fighter aircraft will lead the IAF contingent, which also includes the LCA Tejas, IL-78 mid-air refuelers, and air-borne early warning aircraft. The USAF contingent has flown in from the Pacific command of the US military and will field the F-15 fighter aircraft. The exercise aims to promote inter-operability as both nations strive to counter growing Chinese influence in the Indo-Pacific region. The US has also been trying to build closer military ties with India, which has traditionally relied on Russia for defence equipment and weapons.