Garuda 25: A Milestone in India–France Defence Partnership and Air Force Interoperability

The Garuda 25 exercise stands as a significant milestone in the ongoing defence partnership between India and France, highlighting their commitment to enhancing air force interoperability and strategic cooperation.

Background and Importance

Garuda 25 is a bilateral air exercise involving the Indian Air Force (IAF) and the French Air and Space Force. It is designed to promote the exchange of operational expertise, tactics, and strategic understanding, thereby fostering closer military collaboration between the two nations.

Key Objectives

• Enhanced Interoperability: Strengthening joint operational capabilities and communication protocols between the two air forces.
• Strategic Cooperation: Reinforcing mutual trust and understanding to address common security challenges in the Indo-Pacific and beyond.
• Technology and Tactics Sharing: Facilitating the exchange of best practices, cutting-edge technologies, and tactical skills.
• Operational Readiness: Improving the ability to conduct coordinated air operations, including combat missions, reconnaissance, and logistical support.

Significance for India–France Relations

The exercise represents a deepening of the strategic partnership between India and France, which is based on shared democratic values and a commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific region. It also serves as a platform to showcase the interoperability of various defence systems, including India’s Rafale jets and French aircraft.

Outcomes and Future Prospects

1. Successful joint missions demonstrating enhanced coordination and tactical proficiency.
2. Improved mutual understanding of each other’s operational protocols and capabilities.
3. Potential expansion of future exercises to include advanced technologies such as drone operations and cyber defence.

Overall, Garuda 25 signifies a stride forward in India-France defence ties, contributing to regional stability and reinforcing their roles as responsible global players in security cooperation.

About The Author