Exercise Garuda 2025 is a major bilateral air exercise between the Indian Air Force (IAF) and the French Air and Space Force (FASF). This strategic defence cooperation is highly important for UPSC, CDS, CAPF, State PCS, and SSC exams, especially under topics like Defence Exercises, International Relations, and Security Issues.
What is Exercise Garuda?
Exercise Garuda is a joint air combat exercise conducted between:
-
India
-
France
It aims to enhance:
-
Air combat capability
-
Interoperability between the two air forces
-
Strategic cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region
The exercise is held alternately in India and France.
Keywords: Exercise Garuda, India–France Defence, Air Force Exercise, Indo-Pacific Security.
Exercise Garuda 2025 – What’s New?
1. Sixth Edition of the Exercise
The 2025 exercise marks the 6th edition of Garuda.
The last edition, Garuda VII, was held in 2022 in France.
2. Enhanced Air Power Cooperation
Both nations will collaborate on:
-
Advanced air combat manoeuvres
-
Beyond Visual Range (BVR) missions
-
Aerial refuelling
-
Large-force engagement operations
3. Participation of Modern Aircraft
Likely aircraft include:
-
Rafale (India & France)
-
Mirage 2000
-
Su-30MKI (IAF)
-
Transport & tanker aircraft for refuelling operations
4. Focus on Indo-Pacific Security
India and France are deepening ties in the Indo-Pacific region, and Garuda 2025 will support:
-
Maritime security
-
Airspace cooperation
-
Disaster response training
Keywords: Rafale Jets, Indo-Pacific Strategy, Air Combat Training.
Objectives of Exercise Garuda 2025
1. Strengthening Strategic Ties
The exercise reinforces India–France defence partnership, especially in the context of:
-
Defence technology
-
Joint training
-
Counter-terrorism
2. Improving Interoperability
This refers to the ability of both air forces to operate together during:
-
Joint missions
-
Humanitarian assistance
-
Peacekeeping operations
3. Testing Fighter Aircraft Capabilities
Pilots engage in realistic combat scenarios to enhance:
-
Dogfighting skills
-
Long-range missions
-
Multi-aircraft coordination
4. Enhancing Tactical Skills
Both sides share experience on:
-
Radar evasion
-
Mission planning
-
Aerial surveillance
Why is This Exercise Important for India?
1. Operational Readiness
Prepares the IAF for real-world conflict situations.
2. Learning from a NATO Air Force
France brings advanced training experience as a NATO member.
3. Strengthens Indo-Pacific Defence Presence
Helps India maintain balance in the rapidly changing geopolitics of the region.
4. Supports “Make in India” Defence Cooperation
India and France are also collaborating on:
-
Jet engine technology
-
Submarine manufacturing
-
Satellite systems
Exercise Garuda supports these broader defence ties.
Possible Exam Questions
Prelims MCQ
Exercise Garuda, recently in news, is conducted between India and which country?
Answer: France
Mains Question
Discuss the strategic importance of Exercise Garuda in strengthening India–France relations and enhancing India’s air combat capability.