Published 17:14 IST, July 8th 2019
IN PICS: Indian Air Force pilots fly Rafale, French counterparts fly Su-30 MKIs in Garuda VI
The Indian Air Force (IAF) and its French counterpart Armée de l'air had a successful first week during the integrated flying sessions as a part of the Garuda VI joint exercise between Indian and French Airforce.
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The Indian Air Force (IAF) and its French counterpart Armée de l'air had a successful first week during the integrated flying sessions as a part of the Garuda VI joint exercise between Indian and French Airforce.
During the first week, the IAF pilots flew the Rafale jets and the French pilots flew the Sukhoi 30 MKI aircraft. In a tweet, the IAF appreciated the joint efforts from their French counterparts. In addition, they also posted pictures of pilots posing with the backdrop of aircraft belonging to the fighter fleet of both countries. Here's what they said:
"When we operate together, it's a step towards better Cooperation-Cohesion-Interoperability."
From the pictures which were tweeted by IAF, the jets can be seen in a strategic formation in the skies over the French mainland. Here are some of the tweets from IAF official twitter handle:
The French Air Force too tweeted about the ongoing joint exercises. Here's what they wrote:
"The first week for Indian and French airmen. From Monday complex flights for Su-30 will take place mingling with other units"
On Friday, French Ambassador Alexandre Ziegler said that the first Rafale fighter aircraft will be delivered within two months and it will be "perfectly on time". Calling it an excellent aircraft, he said it would add a lot to the capacity of the Indian Air Force.
"The first Rafale will be delivered to the Indian Air Force (IAF) in two months from now, I think in September, perfectly on time. Thirty-six will come within the next two years," Ziegler said.
The French Ambassador further mentioned that his country will work closely with India to fight terrorism, which has not only caused damage to India but even to France in the past.
14:02 IST, July 8th 2019