Indian Air Force Su-30 MKIs Takes Off for France

For the first time ever, the India's frontline fighter jet Sukhoi-30 MKI will be participating in a joint exercise in France early next week. The team including six Su-30 MKI fighters, three IL-78 mid-air flight refuellers, one Il-76 heavylift aircraft and 230 personnel would take part in the exercise from June 14 to 25 at the Isteres air base in France, officials said.

An IAF contingent of 230 Air Warriors was flagged off from Air Force Station Bareilly by Air Marshal S Varthaman, Senior Air Staff Officer, Central Air Command at a formal ceremony today. The IAF contingent would be taking part in Exercise Garuda scheduled from 14 Jun to 25 Jun 2010, at Istres Air Base, France.

The French and Indian air forces will be joined by the Singapore Air Force with its American-origin Block 52 F-16s for the Garuda series of exercises that were started in 2003 aimed at enhancing military ties between the two countries.Addressing the contingent members, Air Marshal Varthaman said: We have prepared well for last 6-8 months and I am sure you will excel with your professionalism. So fly safe, fly well, make friends, win hearts and touch the sky with glory."

The IAF contingent would be taking part in Exercise Garuda scheduled from June 14-25 at Istres Air Base, France.The French Air Force will field its Mirage 2000 and Rafael fighters, which have been offered to India.

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