An Indian Air Force (IAF) contingent has arrived at Mont-de-Marsan Air Base in France to participate in Exercise Garuda-25, a bilateral air combat drill designed to boost interoperability and operational coordination with the French Air and Space Force (FASF). The exercise will be held from 16 to 27 November 2025.
The IAF confirmed the deployment through an announcement on X, noting that Su-30MKI fighters will undertake advanced air combat training alongside French Rafale jets. The engagements will take place in a high-intensity simulated combat environment aimed at strengthening mission planning, execution, and joint tactical proficiency.
According to the IAF, Garuda-25 will enable both air forces to exchange best practices, refine air combat manoeuvres, and deepen understanding of each other’s operational philosophies. The exercise highlights the growing military trust and synergy between India and France, who have conducted several successful editions of Garuda in past years.
The India–France strategic partnership has expanded significantly across defence, space, energy, and advanced technologies. Military engagements such as Garuda (Air Force), Varuna (Navy), and Shakti (Army) have evolved in complexity, showcasing the maturity of bilateral cooperation.
Earlier this year, the French Air and Space Force participated in Exercise Tarang Shakti Phase I, hosted by India from 6–14 August 2024 at Air Force Stations Sulur and Thanjavur—effectively transforming Garuda into a wider multilateral platform.
Maritime ties also strengthened, with the Sea Phase of Exercise Varuna 2024 conducted from 2–5 September off Toulon. The Indian Navy deployed the P-8I to France’s Istres Air Base, while the French Atlantique 2 took part in India’s multilateral Exercise Milan 2024.
On the land warfare front, the 20th India–France Army Staff Talks were held in New Delhi in November 2024, followed by Exercise Shakti 2024 at Umroi, Meghalaya. This edition marked the first participation of Air Force and Navy observers—moving India and France further toward a tri-service partnership.
Exercise Garuda-25 reinforces the robust and expanding India–France defence relationship, underscoring shared strategic priorities and a common commitment to regional security and collective operational readiness.
