The Indian Air Force (IAF) arrived in France on November 10, 2025, to participate in Exercise Garuda 2025 — a biennial bilateral air combat training exercise between the Indian Air Force and the French Air and Space Force (Armée de l'Air et de l'Espace). The exercise runs from November 16 to 27, 2025. India deployed its multi-role Su-30 MKI fighter jets, while France flew Rafale jets — the same aircraft India operates through its 36-aircraft Rafale deal signed in 2016. Exercise Garuda, first held in 2003, is a marquee event in India-France defence cooperation. Key objectives include: enhancing air combat interoperability; sharing tactical best practices in air-to-air and air-to-ground missions; joint logistics and CASEVAC exercises. The exercise is conducted in the context of the India-France Strategic Partnership — elevated to a Horizon 2047 Roadmap — and follows France's significant role as a strategic partner in India's defence modernisation, supplying Rafales to the IAF and submarines (Scorpène class) to the Indian Navy.
India-France Garuda 2025 Air Exercise Begins at Mont-de-Marsan: IAF Su-30 MKI Faces French Rafale Jets
The Indian Air Force (IAF) arrived in France on November 10, 2025, to participate in Exercise Garuda 2025 — a biennial bilateral air combat training exercise between the Indian Air Force and the French Air and Space Force (Armée de l'Air et de l'Espace). The exercise runs from November 16 to 27, 2025. India deployed its multi-role Su-30 MKI fighter jets, while France flew Rafale jets — the same aircraft India operates through its 36-aircraft Rafale deal signed in 2016. Exercise Garuda, first held in 2003, is a marquee event in India-France defence cooperation. Key objectives include: enhancing air combat interoperability; sharing tactical best practices in air-to-air and air-to-ground missions; joint logistics and CASEVAC exercises. The exercise is conducted in the context of the India-France Strategic Partnership — elevated to a Horizon 2047 Roadmap — and follows France's significant role as a strategic partner in India's defence modernisation, supplying Rafales to the IAF and submarines (Scorpène class) to the Indian Navy.
Key facts
- Exercise Garuda 2025 began on November 15 at Mont-de-Marsan Air Base, France.
- India deployed Su-30 MKI fighters while France flew Rafale jets in the bilateral drill.
- The exercise runs from November 16 to 27, 2025 as the 8th edition since 2003.
- Key objectives include air combat interoperability and tactical best practice sharing.
- It falls under the India-France Strategic Partnership elevated to Horizon 2047 Roadmap.
- France supplies Rafale jets to IAF and Scorpene submarines to the Indian Navy.
Mains angle
Q: Discuss the strategic significance of Exercise Garuda 2025 between India and France.
Answer (50 words):
Indian Air Force Su-30 MKI jets joined French Rafales at Mont-de-Marsan Air Base in southern France after arriving in France on 10 November 2025 for Exercise Garuda, running 16-27 November. First held in 2003, this biennial drill enhances air combat interoperability, supports India's 36-aircraft Rafale deal signed 2016, and reflects the Horizon 2047 Strategic Partnership.
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Frequently asked questions
What is Exercise Garuda and where was its 2025 edition held?
Exercise Garuda is a biennial bilateral air combat training exercise between the Indian Air Force and the French Air and Space Force; the 2025 edition (8th edition) was held at Mont-de-Marsan Air Base in southern France from November 16 to 27, 2025.
Which aircraft did India and France deploy in Exercise Garuda 2025?
India deployed its multi-role Su-30 MKI fighter jets while France flew Rafale jets during Exercise Garuda 2025.
What are the key objectives of Exercise Garuda 2025?
The key objectives include enhancing air combat interoperability between the two air forces and sharing tactical best practices, under the India-France Strategic Partnership elevated to the Horizon 2047 Roadmap.
When was Exercise Garuda first held and how frequently does it take place?
Exercise Garuda was first held in 2003 and takes place biennially (every two years) between the Indian Air Force and the French Air and Space Force.
What major defence equipment does France supply to India?
France supplies Rafale fighter jets to the Indian Air Force (under the 36-aircraft deal signed in 2016) and Scorpene-class submarines to the Indian Navy.
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