Overview

• On October 14, IAF Sukhoi-30 MKIs, Jaguars, AWACS and AEW&C aircraft trained with F-35Bs from HMS Prince of Wales over the Indian Ocean Region.
• The IAF said the training strengthened interoperability, mutual trust and a collective commitment to regional stability.
• UK reports said six F-35Bs rehearsed defending the carrier against about a dozen IAF jets in simulated engagements that included mock dogfights.
• Airborne early-warning platforms provided battle management and situational awareness central to the high-end scenarios.
• The air drills followed the Konkan 25 sea phase and occurred during the UK Carrier Strike Group’s Operation Highmast deployment after visits to Mumbai and Goa.