NEW DELHI, February 13, 2026 — Strengthening the “Act East” partnership, the Indian Air Force (IAF) and the Royal Thai Air Force (RTAF) successfully concluded a four-day bilateral In-situ Exercise in the Indian Ocean Region, held from February 9 to 12.
The high-intensity engagement featured advanced aerial maneuvers involving India’s Su-30MKI multirole fighters and Thailand’s SAAB Gripen jets. To facilitate extended-range operations across the vast maritime domain, the IAF deployed IL-78 mid-air refueling tankers, ensuring the fighters maintained a persistent presence.
The exercise was conducted under a sophisticated command-and-control umbrella, utilizing Indian Airborne Warning and Control System (AWACS) aircraft and Thai Ground Control Interception (GCI) units to enhance surveillance and tactical coordination.
Operating from strategic airbases in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands and Thailand respectively, the participating forces focused on boosting interoperability and sharing combat best practices between the two Friendly Foreign Countries (FFCs).
By bridging the aerospace domains of both nations, the drill effectively demonstrated the IAF’s strategic reach and its commitment to regional stability.
This joint initiative not only provided crucial operational exposure to the aircrews but also marked a significant milestone in the deepening defense cooperation between India and Thailand, reinforcing a shared vision for a secure and open Indian Ocean Region.
