Paris, July 8: The Indian Air Force (IAF) and the French Air Force (Armee De l’Air) are currently participating in a bilateral air exercise Garuda VI at Mont de Marsan in France. During the military drill on Sunday, IAF fighter pilots flew Rafale jets while French pilots flew Sukhoi Su-30 MKI aircraft. Pilots of both the nations took selfies while flying Rafale and Sukhoi Su-30 MKI jets.

The IAF shared a selfie clicked by Squadron Leader Sourabh Ambure while flying a Rafale aircraft on its Twitter handleThe IAF tweeted, “The objective of Indo-France joint exercise is to share good practices & to enhance interoperability & cooperation between the two Air Forces. During the exchange flying, Sqn Ldr Sourabh Ambure flew in the FAF Rafale aircraft.” IAF Mulls to Upgrade Its Fleet With Rs 1.5 Lakh Crore ‘Make in India’ Deals for 170 Aircraft

IAF's Tweet:

Yesterday, the IAF also shared a video of an air-to-air refuelling of Su-30 MKI during the exercise. The Garuda VI exercise began on July 1 and will continue till July 12.  the Indian Air Force (IAF) contingent comprises 120 air-warriors and four Sukhoi 30 MKI along with an IL-78 flight refuelling aircraft, while The French Air Force comprises Rafale, Alpha Jet, Mirage 2000, C135, E3F, C130, and Casa. Rafale Deal Row: French Minister JB Lemoyne Clears Air, Says 'Don't Bother About Controversies, We Just Want to Deliver'.

According to the IAF, the exercise will promote professional interaction, exchange experiences and operational knowledge besides strengthening bilateral relations with the French Air Force. Meanwhile, the first batch of four Rafale jets is expected to arrive in India in September this year. The delivery of four aircraft is part of a Rs 59,000-deal with the France government to procure 36 Rafale jets.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jul 08, 2019 07:18 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).