Article Posted on : - Dec 19, 2011

An IDF photo.

UVDA AIR BASE, ISRAEL (BNS): The air forces of Israel and Italy have concluded a two-week long joint military exercise.

The aerial drill held at the Israel's Uvda aerial base in the southern Negev desert concluded on December 16.

The exercise, which involved Italian Air Force's Eurofighter and Tornado aircraft and Israel's F-15 and F-16 fighters, was a part of the Israel Defence Force's annual training programme.

The exercise was a part of a broad training programme and collaboration with counterpart air forces around the world, the IDF said.

"This is the second time the Italian Air Force has come to train in Israel," Lt. Col. A', IAF Squadron commander, said, adding that this year more aircraft and manpower were involved in the drill, adding the Eurofighter as well.

In an attempt to strengthen its ties with NATO, Israel in recent times has been carrying out large-scale military drills in foreign skies, as well as hosting foreign air forces to train alongside its forces in its military bases.

Three weeks ago, the country had hosted the Greek Air Force to conduct joint drill in its skies, according to state media reports.