IAF contingent lands in France for 'Garuda-VI' air exercise

New Delhi: An Indian Air Force contingent has landed in Mont-de-Marsan in France to participate in a bilateral exercise 'Garuda-VI' with the French Air Force.

The IAF contingent was received by Colonel Gaudillere, Base Commander, Air Base Mont-De-Marsan.

The IAF will be participating in a bilateral exercise with the French Air Force from July 1 to 12.

This is the sixth edition of Exercise Garuda, the last being held at Air Force Station Jodhpur in June 2014.

A total of 120 air warriors along with four Su-30 MKI, IL-78 flight refuelling aircraft will participate in the exercise.

The logistic support to the contingent during the induction and de-induction phase would be provided by C-17 aircraft.

This is one of the biggest air exercises between the two air forces.

The IAF Su-30 MKI will be operating in a simulated operational warfighting scenario along with the French Air Force's multirole Rafale aircraft.

This will enhance understanding of inter-operability during mutual operations between the two air forces and provide an opportunity to learn from each other's best practices.