Ex-Desert Knight 21: Rafale to roar over Jodhpur skies during Indo-French air exercise

Jodhpur: The Indian Air Force has deployed its Rafale, Sukhoi and Mirage 2000 combat jets besides other key assets in a five-day mega air exercise with French air and space force that begins near Jodhpur on Wednesday. The Indian Air Force (IAF) said its deployment at the ‘Ex-Desert Knight 21’ will also include IL-78 flight refuelling aircraft as well as airborne warning and control system (AWACS).

“The French side will participate with Rafale, Airbus A-330 Multi-Role Tanker Transport (MRTT), A-400M Tactical Transport aircraft,” it said, adding around 175 French personnel will be part of the exercise.

The IAF deployment in the exercise will include Mirage 2000, Su-30 MKI, Rafale, IL-78 flight refuelling aircraft and the AWACS.

The drill is taking place at a time the IAF has been keeping all its frontline bases across the country in a high state of operational readiness in view of the Sino-India border row in eastern Ladakh.

“The exercise is unique as it includes fielding of Rafale aircraft by both sides and is indicative of the growing interaction between the two premier air forces,” the IAF said in a statement.

“As the two detachments commence their air exchange from January 20 onwards, they will put into practice operational experience gained across terrains and spectrums and endeavour to exchange ideas and best practices to enhance interoperability” it said.