India, US Air Forces conduct bilateral exercise featuring Sukhoi-30 MKI, B-1 Lancer

In a unique air coordination exercise, Indian Air Force (IAF) fighter jets, including the Russian-parentage Sukhoi-30 MKI, are operating with the US strategic bomber B-1 Lancer as part of a four-day exercise being held from November 10 to 13.

Though the Russian-origin jet has earlier participated in bilateral and multilateral exercises with US platforms, the ongoing exercise for integration with the bomber and the ability to operate together, is a first of its kind.

The IAF on Wednesday released pictures and details of the exercise, which is taking place in southern India. Besides the Sukhoi-30 MKI, French-origin Mirage-2000 jets are also seen flying with the bomber in the images shared by the IAF. The US Air Force has sent only the B-1 bomber for the exercise.

The IAF posted on X, saying, “The Indian Air Force and United States Air Force are engaged in a bilateral exercise from November 10–13, aimed at fostering mutual learning and enhancing interoperability. The US Air Force is participating with the B-1B Lancer.”

Moreover, the exercise is happening in the backdrop of strained India-US ties over trade and tariffs.

The US bomber is a specialised platform that is used by the US for long-range missions to launch attacks.

The aircraft was earlier seen at Aero India in Bangaluru in February this year, and had also participated in the 2023 edition of the show.

This exercise of the IAF with the bomber, is different from the Aero India visit. It indicates the abilities of the IAF and the US Air force to operate together.

India is designated by the US as its Major Defence Partner.