The Indian Air Force is conducting a joint in-situ air exercise with the Royal Thai Air Force on Tuesday (February 10, 2026). Photo credit: X/@IAF_MCC via ANI Photo
The Indian Air Force (IAF) conducted a bilateral exercise with the Royal Thai Air Force (RTAF) in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR) from February 9 to 12, 2026, aimed at enhancing military cooperation and enhancing operational synergy between the two countries.
According to the Ministry of Defence, the engagement was conducted as an air combat exercise involving the IAF’s Su-30MKI multi-role fighter jet and the RTAF’s SAAB Gripen jets. The IAF’s IL-78 mid-air refueling tankers enabled extended-range naval operations, underscoring long-range force deployment capabilities.
The exercise was conducted under the extended surveillance and command network of the IAF’s Airborne Warning and Control System (AWACS), while the RTAF’s Ground Control Interception (GCI) elements provided coordinated control support, the ministry added.
IAF assets operated from air bases in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, demonstrating strategic reach in the IOR, while Thai Gripen fighter jets were launched from bases in Thailand. The exercise demonstrated interoperability between the two air forces and provided operational exposure, including the exchange of best practices in air combat and maritime domain operations.
#IAF conducts a joint air exercise in-situ with #RoyalThaiAirForce (RTAF).
The exercise will strengthen operational coordination and interoperability between the two air forces.
IAF Su-30MKI, AWACS, AEW&C and IL-78 refueling aircraft are participating in the Ex, along with… pic.twitter.com/07ampQ0ptx
— Indian Air Force (@IAF_MCC) February 10, 2026
The exercise reflects the growing defense engagement between India and Thailand and is a significant step in extending the scope of India’s “One East” policy to the field of aviation, defense sources say.
Published – 13 Feb 2026 22:09 IST