India-France ‘Garuda 25’ Air Defence Exercise Takes Off in France
November 17, 2025 | Mont-de-Marsan, France
In a significant boost to bilateral defence cooperation, the Indian Air Force (IAF) and the French Air and Space Force (FASF) have commenced the eighth edition of their joint air defence exercise, Garuda 25, at the Mont-de-Marsan Air Base in southwestern France. The exercise, which runs from November 16 to 27, marks a new chapter in the strategic partnership between the two nations.
An IAF contingent, which arrived in France on November 10, is participating with its frontline Su-30MKI multirole fighter aircraft. These jets will engage in complex simulated combat scenarios alongside French Rafale and other multirole fighters, focusing on air-to-air combat, air defence missions, and coordinated strike operations.
To support the deployment, the IAF has also mobilised C-17 Globemaster III aircraft for airlift operations and IL-78 aerial refuelling tankers to extend the range and endurance of its fighters.
Key Objectives of Garuda 25:
- Enhance interoperability between the IAF and FASF
- Refine tactical procedures in realistic combat environments
- Exchange best practices and operational knowledge
- Strengthen strategic air power coordination
Officials from both air forces emphasised that Garuda 25 is not just a tactical drill but a platform for deep professional engagement, allowing pilots, mission planners, and technical teams to collaborate closely. The exercise also reflects India’s growing emphasis on multilateral defence cooperation and its commitment to maintaining combat readiness through international training initiatives.
India and France have a long-standing defence relationship, with Garuda exercises dating back to 2003. This year’s iteration comes amid broader strategic dialogues, including recent high-level talks between defence chiefs and expanded cooperation in naval and space domains.
As the skies over Mont-de-Marsan roar with coordinated sorties, Garuda 25 stands as a testament to the evolving Indo-French defence partnership—one that blends operational excellence with shared strategic vision.
