1.Introduction
Garuda is a bilateral air-combat exercise between the Indian Air Force (IAF) and the French Air and Space Force (FASF).
The 2025 edition is being held at Mont-de-Marsan Air Base, France.
It reflects the growing strategic convergence between India and France in the Indo-Pacific and defence domains.
2. Key Objectives of the Exercise
a. Enhancing Interoperability
Develop the ability of both air forces to operate together seamlessly in multi-domain combat environments.
Improve communication protocols, mission coordination and airspace deconfliction.
b. Strengthening Air-Combat Skills
Practice air-to-air engagements, beyond-visual-range (BVR) combat and close-combat manoeuvres.
Simulate complex threats that resemble modern aerial warfare conditions.
c. Refining Air Defence and Strike Capabilities
Execute air defence missions, intercept protocols, and defensive counter-air operations.
Conduct joint strike missions using mixed fighter formations (IAF + French fighters).
d. Tactical Learning & Doctrinal Exchange
Exchange best practices related to:
mission planning
threat assessment
electronic warfare
pilot training
operational philosophy of both air forces
3. Indian Assets Participating
a. Fighter Aircraft
Six Sukhoi-30MKI — India’s frontline multirole fighters known for manoeuvrability and long-range operations.
b. Support Platforms
IL-78 Mid-Air Refueller – extends aircraft endurance for long missions.
C-17 Globemaster-III – heavy-lift transport aircraft for personnel and equipment movement.
4. French Participation
Rafale multirole fighters and other FASF platforms.
Advanced avionics and combat systems of the Rafale provide high-end training value for IAF pilots.
5. Operational Activities During the Exercise
a. Simulated Combat Scenarios
Offensive counter-air and defensive counter-air missions.
Suppression of enemy air defences (SEAD).
Large force engagements (LFE).
b. Mid-Air Refuelling & Long-Endurance Missions
Enhances capability for long-range strike and persistent air presence.
c. Integrated Mission Planning
Mixed-aircrew planning, execution and debriefing to refine joint operations.
6. Significance for India
a. Boosts Combat Preparedness
Helps IAF evaluate its fighter performance against Western platforms.
Provides exposure to advanced NATO-standard tactics.
b. Supports India’s Indo-Pacific Strategy
Strengthens a committed partner (France) in the region’s security architecture.
Enhances India’s readiness for multi-national operations.
c. Supports Defence Modernisation
Facilitates learning on:
network-centric warfare
electronic warfare
air command & control systems
d. Confidence Building & Strategic Signalling
Sends a message of joint strategic resolve amidst evolving regional and global security challenges.
7. Significance for India–France Strategic Partnership
a. Expanding Defence Cooperation
Complements:
Rafale fighter induction
Scorpene submarine programme
Joint space-based surveillance initiatives
Defence manufacturing collaborations
b. Indo-Pacific Convergence
France is the only European power with territories in the Indo-Pacific.
Both countries support:
rule-based order
freedom of navigation
maritime security
c. Technology Collaboration
Opens avenues for cooperation in:
aerospace technology
UAVs
jet engine development
missile systems
8. UPSC-Relevant Facts
Garuda: Bilateral air exercise between India and France.
2025 Venue: Mont-de-Marsan Air Base, France.
Indian Deployments: Sukhoi-30MKI, IL-78, C-17.
Focus Areas:
air-to-air combat
air defence operations
joint strike missions
interoperability enhancement
Duration: 16–27 November 2025.
Reinforces Indo-Pacific security cooperation and strategic partnership.
