India, France, UAE Hold Trilateral Air Exercise Over Arabian Sea

India, France, UAE Conduct Desert Night Air Drill Over Arabian Sea

The trilateral air exercise Desert Night involving India, France and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) began in the Arabian Sea on Wednesday. The air exercise showcases enhanced cooperation and interoperability between the air forces of the three countries.

The three-day war game involves India’s Su-30MKI and Jaguar jets, France’s Rafale fighter jets and the UAE’s F-16s. The exercise featured complex flying maneuvers and mission scenarios. French and UAE aircraft flew from Al Dhafra Air Base in the United Arab Emirates, while Indian Air Force (IAF) aircraft launched from bases in western India.

This is the second Desert Night drill after the first one in January of this year.

The initiative aims to strengthen mutual understanding, coordination and operational coordination in high-pressure combat situations, fostering tactical cooperation among the participants.

The exercise focuses on enhancing regional security in the Indo-Pacific and Arabian Sea, highlighting the strategic partnership between the countries. It underscores India’s growing security cooperation with global allies, reflecting its ability to operate seamlessly with advanced air forces like France and the UAE.

Such exercises are crucial in enhancing preparedness, sharing best practices and building trust among the participating countries, official sources said.