The Indian Air Force (IAF) is currently engaged in a collaborative venture with the Royal Air Force Oman (RAFO). This joint bilateral exercise, known as EX EASTERN BRIDGE V, is taking place at the Air Force Base Masirah, located in Oman.
About the Exercise
The IAF unit participating in this exercise consists of MiG-29 and C-17 aircraft. Notably, this marks the inaugural international exercise featuring the MIG-29 fighter aircraft outside of India. In comparison, the preceding EX EASTERN BRIDGE-IV exercise was hosted in 2017 in Jamnagar, India.
Significance of the Exercise
This cooperative exercise offers an array of benefits for both air forces. Primarily, it will provide opportunities to enhance their interoperability during a period of mutual cooperation. Moreover, the exercise also facilitates the exchange of experience and operational knowledge, fostering professional interactions between the two entities.
Further India-Oman Collaborations
Alongside the EX EASTERN BRIDGE exercises, there are other instances of bilateral exercises held between India and Oman. The naval exercise, Naseem Al-Bahr, and AL Nagah, a joint bilateral exercise involving the armies of the two countries, are prime examples of such collaborations.
Key Facts at a Glance
| Exercise | Type | Participating Entities |
|---|---|---|
| EX EASTERN BRIDGE V | Joint Bilateral Exercise | IAF and RAFO |
| Naseem Al-Bahr | Naval Exercise | Indian Navy and Royal Navy of Oman |
| AL Nagah | Joint Bilateral Exercise | Indian Army and Royal Army of Oman |
Source of Information
For this exposition, all information and data have been collated from PIB, an official government source. This ensures both the authenticity and accuracy of the details outlined in the article.
