India–Thailand Air Exercise | 17 Feb 2026

Source: PIB 

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.