IAF contingent returns after 'successful completion' of Indo-French exercise Garuda VI in France

The bilateral exercise between Indian and French Air Force is the sixth edition of Exercise Garuda. The last exercise, 'Garuda V' was held at Air Force Station Jodhpur on June 2014.

The IL-78 crew visited French Air Force Base Istres and interacted with the members there. The IAF team also visited the newly inducted Multi Role Tanker Transport (MRTT) Squadron.

The Indian Air Force had said that the Indo-France joint exercise gives the Air Force personnel a "great opportunity to interact, exchange views, experiences, and knowledge."

A French Air Force Pilot was also given an opportunity to fly in the Su-30MKI aircraft, during the integration flying training week, the IAF notified.

Both IAF and Armée de l'Air pilots took selfies while flying in the Rafale and Su-30 MKI jets.

The French pilot who was flying India's Sukhoi Su-30 MKI jet posted the selfie in a tweet, saying that it was a "Great aircraft".

A French pilot makes a FAM flight aboard an @IAF_MCC Su-30MKI. Great aircraft !
// Un pilote du #RC2_30 effectue un vol de familiarisation à bord d'un #Flanker-C indien. Sacré avion ! //#Garuda #Rafale pic.twitter.com/RR0jXAmOZc

— Webmaster Chasse (@WebChasse) July 4, 2019

Glimpses from #ExGaruda2019 . pic.twitter.com/Ayg6nfHa5o

— Indian Air Force (@IAF_MCC) July 8, 2019

IAF fighter pilot Squadron Leader Sourabh Ambure flew in the Rafale aircraft. The official Twitter handle of the Indian Air Force then tweeted out the photos, saying that when the two forces operate together, it's a step towards better 'Cooperation-Cohesion-Interoperability'.

The IAF contingent comprised of 120 air-warriors and four Su-30 MKI along with an IL-78 Flight Refueling aircraft, which are participating during the exercise. C-17 strategic lift aircraft are providing the logistic support to the contingent during the induction and de-induction phase.

The participation of IAF in the exercise was also aimed at promoting professional interaction, exchange experiences and operational knowledge besides strengthening bilateral relations with the French Air Force.