An IAF contingent comprising MiG-29s, Jaguars and C-17s is ready to set course to participate in Exercise Eastern Bridge in Oman. This is the seventh edition of the Exercise that will conclude on September 22nd at Air Force Base Masirah, Oman.
The bilateral exercise endeavours to enhance interoperability between Royal Oman Air Force and the Indian Air Force and shall provide a platform for both teams to engage in a series of joint training missions designed to strengthen strategic cooperation and operational readiness.
Exercise Eastern Bridge VII aims to improve tactical and operational skills, foster mutual understanding and bolster the ability of both air forces to collaborate effectively in diverse scenarios. The exercise will include complex aerial manoeuvring, air-to-air and air-to-ground operations, and logistical coordination, reflecting both nations’ evolving defence needs and strategic interests.
Underscoring the enduring partnership between the Royal Oman Air Force and the Indian Air Force, this exercise highlights their commitment to regional security and stability. The participating teams are expected to benefit from the shared expertise and operational experience gained during this extensive training period.
The exercise is taking place simultaneously with the second phase of Exercise Tarang Shakti that is taking place in Jodhpur in Rajasthan. Tarang Shakti is a multi-phase exercise that has already seen participation from France, Germany, Spain, and the UK during the successful first phase, which took place from 6th to 16th August at Sulur Airbase in Tamil Nadu.
The second phase is has witnessed several firsts, including the landing of Greek fighter jets in India for the first time in history. Australia, Singapore, the UAE, and the USA are taking part. Mitsubishi F-2 fighters of the Japan Air Self-Defense Force have undertaken a rare overseas deployment for the impressive air exercise.
The Indian Air Force has also taken part in extensive multilateral air exercises such as Pitch Black in Australia and Red Flag (Alaska) in the last few months.
Team Bharatshakti
