The 8th edition of the Indo-French air exercise Garuda 25 concluded on 27 November 2025 at Mont-de-Marsan Air Base in France, marking a significant milestone in the defence partnership between India and France.
Enhancing Cooperation and Interoperability
Garuda 25 brought together air force personnel and advanced aircraft from both nations, enhancing operational cooperation and interoperability between the Indian Air Force and the French Air and Space Force. Over five days, participants conducted:
- Complex air combat drills
- Tactical operations
- Joint mission planning
Scope of the Exercise
The event featured various aircraft types, including fighter jets, transport planes, and refuelling tankers. Scenarios practiced involved:
- Air defence
- Ground attack
- Search and rescue missions
Experts emphasize that this collaboration boosts mutual understanding and readiness to address diverse defence challenges.
Strategic and Regional Importance
Officials from India and France highlighted the exercise’s value as a platform for sharing tactics and technology, underlining its role in:
- Strengthening strategic ties
- Supporting regional security
Garuda 25 also reflects the commitment of both countries to cooperate amid a changing global security landscape, fostering trust through continuous training and expertise exchange.
Historical Context and Future Prospects
This exercise is part of a bilateral effort initiated in 2013, symbolizing over a decade of growing military cooperation aimed at:
- Facilitating smoother operations in joint missions
- Providing humanitarian assistance during crises
General Philippe Lavigne, French Air Force commander, praised the partnership by stating, “Garuda 25 showcases our dedication to building a durable and effective partnership with India’s air force.”
Air Marshal Anil Chopra of the Indian Air Force added, “The exercise has been invaluable in enhancing teamwork, communication, and mutual respect between our forces.”
Conclusion
Garuda 25 is expected to remain an annual event, continually reinforcing defence ties and improving tactical capabilities through shared practical experience.
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