India, France and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) conducted a major air exercise named 'Desert Night' over the Arabian Sea.
In a significant step towards strengthening military cooperation and addressing regional security concerns, India, France and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) conducted a major air exercise named 'Desert Night' over the Arabian Sea. The joint exercise, to be held on January 23, 2024, comes in the backdrop of growing global concerns over Houthi terrorists targeting commercial vessels in strategic waterways.
Objectives of 'Desert Night'
Enhancing interoperability and coordination
The main focus of 'Desert Night' was to enhance synergy and interoperability between the air forces of the participating countries. The exercise aims to promote shared understanding of operational tactics and enhance coordination in complex aerial scenarios.
Addressing regional security challenges
Amidst the increasing attacks by Houthi terrorists in the Red Sea, the exercise serves as a strategic response, demonstrating the collective resolve of the participating countries to safeguard vital sea lanes and promote regional stability.
Partnership and property
Diverse range of aerial assets
The exercise featured an impressive array of frontline air assets and combat aircraft. The Indian Air Force (IAF) participated with Su-30 MKI, MiG-29 and Jaguar fighter aircraft as well as AWACS, C-130-J transport aircraft and air-to-air refueling aircraft. The French and UAE air forces operate their aircraft, including Rafale jets, from Al Dhafra Airport in the UAE.
Operative Base and Flight Information Area
Indian Air Force aircraft operated from several bases across India, within the Indian Flight Information Region (FIR). The FIR, which divides all airspaces around the world, regulates the authorities responsible for ensuring air traffic services for aircraft within these areas.
strategic implications
strengthening trilateral relations
The exercise underlines the deepening military ties between India, France and the UAE. This reflects the growing trend of cooperative defense strategies among countries sharing common security interests.
enhancing regional security
By organizing 'Desert Night', the three countries have demonstrated their commitment to maintaining peace and stability in a region that is vital for international maritime trade and energy security.
Wider context: Republic Day celebrations
Participation of French forces in Republic Day
The trilateral exercise will take place ahead of India's Republic Day celebrations, where French Air Force Rafale jets and Airbus A330 multi-role tanker transport aircraft will also participate. A 95-member marching squad and 33-member band squad from France will participate in the parade.
President of France as chief guest
Emphasizing the close India-France ties, French President Emmanuel Macron will be the chief guest at the Republic Day celebrations on January 26, becoming the sixth French leader to grace the prestigious annual event.
Important questions related to exam
- What is the name of the joint air exercise conducted by India, France and UAE over the Arabian Sea?
- Which countries participated in the joint air exercise and what were the major air assets involved?
- Which French leader will be the chief guest at India's Republic Day celebrations in 2024?
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