On 14 October 2025, the Indian Air Force (IAF) participated in a significant joint exercise with the Royal Navy in the Indian Ocean Region. This high-profile event featured a diverse array of aircraft, including Sukhoi-30 MKIs, Jaguars, Airborne Warning and Control System (AWACS), and Airborne Early Warning and Control (AEW&C) platforms, in addition to F-35B fighter jets from the aircraft carrier HMS Prince of Wales.
The primary focus of the exercise was to enhance interoperability among the forces, improve operational coordination, and build mutual trust between the IAF and the Royal Navy. This collaboration aims to reinforce a joint commitment to maintaining regional stability and maritime security, which are increasingly critical in today’s geopolitical landscape.
During the exercise, multiple mission profiles were undertaken, encompassing air combat drills, surveillance operations, and integrated fleet coordination. These operations showcased the IAF’s ability to operate effectively alongside advanced foreign military platforms in a complex maritime environment.
This joint training initiative not only demonstrates India’s growing defense partnerships with allied naval and air forces but also highlights the strategic importance of conducting multi-domain exercises within the Indo-Pacific region. Such collaborations are crucial for ensuring readiness and responding to the evolving security challenges faced by nations in this strategic theater.
