The multinational air combat exercise, Desert Flag-10 has started today in United Arab Emirates (UAE). A contingent of the Indian Air Force (IAF) is taking part in this exercise which will happen till May 8, 2025.
About Desert Flag
- It is a multinational exercise that primarily focuses on undertaking complex and diverse fighter engagements. Additionally, it is a platform for participating nations to exchange operational knowledge and best practices to enhance the robustness of their Air Forces.
- Apart from India, forces from many developed nations including Australia, UK, France, Germany, and the US take part in the exercise. Additionally, forces of UAE, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Korea, Turkey, and Bahrain also participate in the exercise with their Air Force. These are the most capable forces in the world.
- Their participation helps them enhance the capabilities of operational efficiencies of their Air Force, significantly strengthening their air defence system.
- It also boosts mutual understanding interoperability and makes defence cooperation among these nations smooth.
Indian Air Force Contingent
- A highly capable contingent of the Indian Air Force is participating in the exercise in UAE. It has deployed MiG-29 and Jaguar aircraft which are considered one of the best defence vehicles.
- The exercise will not only increase the IAF’s combat capabilities but also strengthen India’s commitment to solidifying defence ties with nations across the globe.
- It will also improve the IAF’s capabilities to operate in cooperation with other forces.
About the Indian Air Force
- The Indian Air Force (IAF) was initially established by the British Government on October 8, 1931. It was called Royal Indian Air Force (RIAF). After independence, it became IAF in 1950.
- The President of India is the ultimate guide and commander of the IAF.
- The motto of IAF is “Nabhah Sparhsam Diptam” which has been taken from the Bhagavad Gita. It means to “Touch the sky with glory” which rightly describes the spirit of the IAF.
- New Delhi serves as the headquarters for the force which has strengthened India’s defence system and played critical roles in many operations, including Operation Vijay (Kargil War, 1999), Operation Meghdoot (Siachen Glacier, 1984), Operation Cactus (Maldives, 1988), and Operation Poomalai (Sri Lanka, 1987).
- Besides protecting India from enemies, the IAF also participates in UN peacekeeping missions to serve the humanity.
- The IAF is equipped with several high-tech aircraft that facilitate its operations and missions. The government ties up with countries across the globe to ensure better equipment and technology transfer.
