Exercise Desert Flag VIII

Exercise Desert Flag VIII is a multilateral air exercise that aims to bring about the interoperability of different fighter engagements and sharing of best practices of various Air Forces. The exercise will be held from February 27 to March 17, 2023, and will involve the participation of 10 countries, namely, UAE, France, Kuwait, Australia, UK, Bahrain, Morocco, Spain, Republic of Korea, and the US.

Objective of the Exercise

The objective of Exercise Desert Flag VIII is to provide a platform for various air forces to come together and share their experiences, tactics, and techniques. This helps in the interoperability of different fighter engagements, which is crucial for any joint operation. The exercise also provides an opportunity for different air forces to understand each other’s capabilities and limitations.

Participation of Indian Air Force

The Indian Air Force Contingent is also taking part in Exercise Desert Flag VIII. It includes 110 Air Warriors along with 5 LCA Tejas and two C-17 Globemaster III aircraft. This is the first time that LCA Tejas aircraft is included in an international flying exercise outside India.

The participation of Indian Air Force in this exercise is a significant milestone as it demonstrates India’s commitment to enhancing its military cooperation with other countries. It also showcases the capabilities of the Indian Air Force and the indigenously developed LCA Tejas aircraft.

Benefits of Exercise Desert Flag VIII

Exercise Desert Flag VIII provides an opportunity for air forces to learn from each other’s experiences and improve their capabilities. It helps in enhancing the interoperability of different fighter engagements, which is essential for any joint operation. The exercise also helps in building trust and mutual understanding between different air forces.

Exercise Desert Flag VIII also provides a platform for the development of new techniques and tactics that can be used in future operations. It also helps in enhancing the readiness of the air forces for any future contingencies.