The Indian Air Force (IAF) has steadily solidified its position as a key player in global defense cooperation by actively participating in multinational exercises. One such significant engagement is the Iniochos exercise, hosted annually by Greece’s Hellenic Air Force (HAF).
IAF’s involvement in Iniochos-23 and now Iniochos-25 highlights India’s growing emphasis on interoperability, combat readiness, and defense diplomacy.
IAF’s Participation in INIOCHOS-25
The IAF is actively participating in Exercise INIOCHOS-25, a high-intensity multinational air drill hosted by the HAF at Andravida Air Base, Greece, from March 31 to April 11, 2025.
The IAF contingent comprises:
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Su-30 MKI fighter jets
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IL-78 mid-air refuelers
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C-17 Globemaster transport aircraft
INIOCHOS-25 involves participation from 15 countries, including France, Israel, Italy, Montenegro, Poland, Qatar, Slovenia, Spain, the UAE, the United States, Cyprus, Bahrain, and Slovakia.
The exercise focuses on:
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Offensive & Defensive Counterair Operations
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Strategic Air Operations
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Combat Search and Rescue
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Time-Sensitive Targeting
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Protection of High-Value Airborne Assets
The IAF’s participation enhances its operational exposure, allowing its pilots to train in complex, real-world combat scenarios and exchange tactical knowledge with allied air forces.
Iniochos: A Prestigious Air Exercise
Originating in the 1980s, Iniochos has evolved into one of Europe’s most challenging air combat training platforms. It is conducted under a Single Base Concept, meaning all operations are centralized at Andravida Air Base, offering a unique training environment that simulates modern air warfare.
Participating forces engage in multi-dimensional combat, including air superiority missions, anti-surface warfare, and suppression of integrated air defense systems.
Over the years, the exercise has seen participation from NATO and non-NATO nations, including the U.S., France, Italy, Israel, Saudi Arabia, and India.
IAF’s Entry Into Iniochos
The IAF first participated in Iniochos-23 (April 24–May 4, 2023), marking a significant step in its engagement with European air forces. The Su-30 MKIs operated alongside French Rafales, U.S. F-16s, Italian Tornados, and Greek Mirage 2000s in air-to-air and air-to-ground combat scenarios.
The IAF’s role in both Iniochos-23 and Iniochos-25 underscores its ability to project power overseas, sustain long-range deployments, and engage in multilateral defense cooperation.
Operational Significance for the IAF
The IAF’s involvement in Iniochos-25 serves several strategic and operational purposes:
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Combat Training in Realistic Environments
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Engaging in advanced combat scenarios enhances pilots’ tactical acumen.
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The use of high-tech debriefing tools (GPS trackers, shot assessment software) improves mission performance.
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Interoperability with Global Air Forces
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The IAF gains firsthand exposure to NATO-standard tactics and procedures.
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Operating alongside F-15s, MQ-9 drones, and Rafales enhances adaptability in joint operations.
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Strengthening Defense Ties
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Participation fosters defense cooperation between India and Greece, aligning with India’s broader geopolitical strategy.
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The exercise enhances military diplomacy, strengthening India’s presence in the Mediterranean region.
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Strategic Implications for India
The IAF’s participation in overseas drills like Iniochos reflects India’s shift toward global defense collaboration and power projection. Historically focused on regional security, the IAF is now enhancing its capabilities for long-range missions and multinational operations.
Furthermore, as Greece holds a key strategic position in the Mediterranean, closer defense relations could lead to future collaborations in joint training, technology exchange, and maritime security.
Conclusion
By participating in Iniochos-25, the Indian Air Force reinforces its commitment to combat excellence, defense cooperation, and strategic outreach. As the IAF continues to engage in multinational exercises, it not only hones its operational skills but also strengthens India’s global defense partnerships.
The Mediterranean skies serve as a testing ground for India’s evolving air power, reflecting its aspirations as a key player in the modern security landscape.
