The Indian Air Force marked a new beginning by participating in the tri-services exercise Bright Star-23 with the Egyptian Air Force. The exercise was conducted from 27 August to 16 September 2023 at Cairo Airbase in Egypt. The participation of the Indian Air Force in this exercise underlines a new chapter in cooperation and collaboration between the nations.
Countries participating in Bright Star 23 exercise
The Indian Air Force is participating for the first time in the exercise Bright Star-23, which will also see participation from air force contingents from the United States, Saudi Arabia, Greece and Qatar. The Indian Air Force contingent will comprise five MiG-29, two IL-78, two C-130 and two C-17 aircraft. Garuda Special Forces and personnel from No. 28, 77, 78 and 81 Squadrons of the Indian Air Force will participate in the exercise. Around 150 personnel of the Indian Army will also be airlifted by an Indian Air Force (IAF) transport aircraft.
Objective of exercise
The objective of the exercise is to put into practice the exercise plan for joint operations. In addition to building mutual relations between the two sides of the border, such interactions also provide a means to advance the strategic relationship between the participating countries. The flying practice of Indian Air Force contingents abroad is no less than that of diplomats traveling in flight suits.
India and Egypt relations
India and Egypt have had an extraordinary relationship and deep cooperation, with the two countries jointly developing aero-engines and aircraft in the 1960s and Egyptian pilots being trained by the Indian Air Force. The recent visits to Egypt by the Air Force Chiefs of both the countries and the Defense Minister and Prime Minister of India have further strengthened the ties between the two civilizational countries. Both countries have also promoted joint training with regular exercises between their armed forces.