Six IAF Su-30 MKIs, two C-17s, IL-78 tanker aircraft to take part in Ex 'Desert Flag' in UAE

The Indian Air Force (IAF) will participate in the annual multinational exercise 'Desert Flag' hosted by the United Arab Emirates (UAE), informed the Ministry of Defence on Tuesday.

According to a statement issued by the Defence Ministry, the IAF will be participating for the first time in exercise 'Desert Flag', which is is an annual multi-national large force employment warfare exercise. The exercise is scheduled from March 3 to March 27 at Al-Dhafra airbase of UAE.

The IAF is participating with six Su-30 MKI, two C-17 and one IL-78 tanker aircraft, the Ministry said.

C-17 Globemaster will provide support for induction and de-induction of the IAF contingent. Su-30 MKI aircraft will undertake long range ferry, routing direct from India to the exercise area with aerial refueling support from IL-78 tanker aircraft.

The aim of the exercise is to provide operational exposure to the participating forces while training them to undertake simulated air combat operations in a controlled environment. The participating forces will get an opportunity to enhance their operational capabilities along with mutual exchange of best practices.

The large-scale exercise involving diverse fighter aircraft from across the globe will provide the participating forces, including IAF, a unique opportunity to exhchange knowledge, experience, enhance operational capabilities and interoperability.

Exercising and interaction with the participating nations in a dynamic and realstic warfare environment will also contribute to strengthen international relations.

( With inputs from ANI )