India and France have successfully concluded the 8th edition of bilateral air exercise ‘Garuda’ involving the Indian Air Force (IAF) and the French Air and Space Force (FASF) at the Air Base 118, Mont-de-Marsan, France on Nov. 27, 2025.  

The IAF contingent which took part in the exercise with its frontline Su-30MKI fighters, supported by IL-78 air-to-air refuelling aircraft and C-17 Globemaster III transport aircraft, returned to India on Dec 2, 2025 after the successful culmination of the exercise. 

Both air forces conducted a range of complex air operations in a realistic operational environment during the exercise, an official statement issued by the Indian MoD here said. 

The training involved joint mission planning, coordinated execution of strike and escort missions and familiarisation with each other’s operational procedures, thereby enhancing interoperability. The IAF maintenance crew ensured high serviceability throughout, enabling smooth conduct of all planned missions, it stated.

Senior officials from both nations interacted with the participants during the closing ceremony, commending the professionalism, discipline, and commitment displayed by both participating forces.

Exercise Garuda 25 was one of the largest international air training engagements undertaken by the IAF this year. 

“The exercise reaffirmed the strong strategic partnership between India and France and provided valuable operational insights to the participating forces. The lessons learnt will further enhance the IAF’s war-fighting capabilities and strengthen jointmanship with friendly foreign air forces,” the statement read.