Rapid Fire
India–Thailand Air Exercise
- 17 Feb 2026
- 2 min read
The Indian Air Force (IAF) conducted an In-situ Exercise with the Royal Thai Air Force (RTAF) in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR), expanding strategic partnership under India's Act East Policy 2014.
- Exercise Overview: The IAF deployed Su-30MKI multirole fighters, IL-78 mid-air refuelling tankers, and Airborne Warning and Control System (AWACS) aircraft. The RTAF participated with its SAAB Gripen jets.
- In-situ Exercise: IAF forces operated from airbases in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, while Thai Gripens operated from bases within Thailand.
- Objective: It aimed to demonstrate IAF's reach and interoperability with a Friendly Foreign Country (FFC) in the IOR, highlighting the strategic importance of the Andaman and Nicobar Command (ANC) as a forward hub.
- Significance: This exercise reflects the deepening "Act East" partnership between India and Thailand, expanding into the aerospace domain.
- This is complemented by Thailand's own 'Act West' policy 2016, which aligns with India's regional outreach, underpinned by their maritime proximity.
| Read More: India's Act East Policy |
