636: PSYCHOLOGICAL WARFARE IN UKRAINE: SUCCESS OR FAILURE

 

My Article was published in the News Analytics Journal of Mar 25.

 

 

Psychological warfare (psywar) aims to influence perceptions, morale, and decision-making, often targeting adversaries and domestic populations. In the context of the Russia- Ukraine conflict, Russia’s psywar likely seeks to demoralise Ukrainians, fracture their resistance, sow distrust in their leadership, and bolster domestic support within Russia for the war effort. An evaluation of Russia’s psychological warfare (psywar) in Ukraine would need an assessment of its objectives, tactics, and measurable impacts based on available evidence and recent developments.  This paper argues that while Russia’s psychological warfare has succeeded in shaping domestic narratives and straining Western unity, it has failed to break Ukrainian resistance or achieve a decisive strategic victory.

 

Historical Perspective of Russian Psychological Warfare

Russian psychological warfare (psywar) has a rich and intricate history, deeply ingrained in the nation’s strategic culture. From the Tsarist era to modern hybrid warfare, Russia has consistently employed psychological operations to manipulate perception, control narratives, and weaken adversaries. The roots of Russian psywar can be traced back to the early 20th century when the Bolsheviks effectively used propaganda to consolidate power during and after the Russian Revolution. Lenin and Trotsky understood that controlling information was just as crucial as military victories, leading to the institutionalisation of propaganda through organisations like Agitprop, which shaped Soviet political messaging.

During the early Soviet period, psywar techniques were used not only to suppress internal dissent but also to influence communist movements worldwide. The concept of “reflexive control,” developed in Soviet military thought, became a key element of Russian psywar, aiming to manipulate opponents into making decisions that ultimately benefit Russian interests. By the time of World War II, Soviet psychological operations had evolved into large-scale deception campaigns, including the use of maskirovka (military deception) to mislead Nazi Germany. Throughout the Cold War, the Soviet Union refined these methods, launching extensive “Active Measures” under the KGB to manage information and exploit societal divisions in Western nations.

Following the collapse of the Soviet Union, Russia, under Vladimir Putin, revived and modernised its psychological warfare strategies, adapting them to the digital age. The contemporary Russian approach to psywar, often called “information confrontation”, integrates cyber operations, media manipulation, and social engineering to achieve strategic objectives.

 

Russian Psywar during the Ukraine War

Russian psychological warfare in the context of the Ukraine war has been a multifaceted effort aimed at shaping perceptions both domestically and internationally. The multi-layered strategy integrates military, political, and information operations to shape perceptions, demoralise opponents, and influence global narratives.  Psychological warfare has played a central role in Russia’s strategy throughout the Ukraine war, aiming to weaken Ukrainian resistance, shape international perceptions, and manipulate domestic narratives. Russia has employed a mix of cyber operations, information management campaigns, battlefield deception, and psychological intimidation to erode Ukrainian morale and divide Western support.

One of the key elements of Russia’s psychological warfare has been its use of information management. Russian state media and social media bots have employed online platforms with narratives that neo-Nazis run Ukraine to accusations that NATO is using Ukraine as a puppet to attack Russia. These narratives justify the war to the Russian population, confuse Ukrainian citizens, and create divisions within Western democracies by amplifying anti-war and isolationist sentiments. Russian narratives have also sought to exploit war fatigue in Western nations, emphasising that financial and military support for Ukraine is futile, expensive, or escalatory.

One prominent example of Russia’s psychological warfare tactics is the ‘Doppelganger’ campaign initiated in 2022 by the Russian IT firm Social Design Agency (SDA). This operation aimed to undermine support for Ukraine by manipulating public opinion in countries like Germany, France, Italy, and the United Kingdom. The campaign involved creating news articles that presented a pro-Russian perspective on the conflict and deploying AI-powered bot networks to disseminate these narratives on social media platforms. These bots were programmed to engage with users, spreading Russian narratives and pro-Russian sentiments. The ‘Doppelganger’ campaign demonstrates how Russia uses digital platforms and AI to shape international perceptions and influence public opinion in its favour.

Cyber warfare has also been a critical psychological tool. Russian cyber groups have often launched cyber attacks on Ukrainian government institutions, banks, and critical infrastructure. Beyond disabling systems, these attacks serve a psychological function, creating uncertainty, fear, and the impression that Ukraine’s leadership cannot protect its citizens.  Russian cyber efforts extend beyond Ukraine, targeting Western institutions with cyber sabotage to weaken overall support for Kyiv.

 

All-Out or Restricted Psywar.

While Russia is undeniably engaged in psywar, it may not be pushing it to its fullest potential. A maximalist Russian psywar would have included massive global disinformation by flooding international media and social platforms with tailored narratives to isolate Ukraine diplomatically and erode Western support. It would have shut down Ukraine’s communication networks entirely (e.g., via cyber and electronic warfare) to prevent resistance messaging and sow chaos. Russia would have infiltrated Ukrainian society with agents or digital campaigns to fracture trust in leadership and incite internal dissent. Russia employed these tactics, but not at an all-out scale or intensity.

Russia isn’t indulging in a full-fledged war not because it’s unwilling but because strategy, resources, and context constrain it. The war’s hybrid nature means that psywar is a key component, but it’s subordinated to military and economic priorities rather than unleashed as a standalone juggernaut. Russia seems content with a steady, if not maximal, psychological pressure adequate to grind Ukraine down but not bold enough to gamble on total dominance.

Strategic Restraint or Compulsion.  A no-holds-barred psywar could provoke stronger NATO responses, like direct intervention or crippling sanctions beyond the current scope. Putin appears to calibrate efforts to avoid provoking direct NATO intervention strategically (e.g., nuclear rhetoric is loud but not yet acted upon). Escalating psywar abroad might require diverting resources from domestic propaganda, which keeps Putin’s regime intact. A complete external focus could weaken the internal control. A full-fledged psywar demands significant investment in cyberinfrastructure, media saturation, and personnel. Putin may believe conventional military gains suffice to force Ukraine into submission, reducing the need for an all-out psychological blitz.

 

Success or Failure

Despite relentless Russian strikes, Ukrainian resolve appears mixed. Reports from Kyiv indicate fatigue among civilians and soldiers, with some expressing doubts about a negotiated peace due to distrust in Russia. However, Ukraine’s counteroffensives and continued drone strikes on Russian territory demonstrate resilience and a refusal to capitulate. This suggests Russia has not fully broken Ukrainian will, though exhaustion is a growing factor after three years of war. It has partially succeeded in weakening civilian morale and straining resources but hasn’t achieved a decisive psychological collapse.

Russian psywar has aimed to undermine trust in President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s government. While Ukraine faces internal challenges, such as ammunition shortages and delayed Western aid, there’s no clear evidence of widespread distrust or collapse in governance.  The psychological toll on Ukrainians is undeniable. Studies from 2023-2024 highlight high rates of PTSD, anxiety, and depression exacerbated by displacement and infrastructure attacks. Yet, it hasn’t translated into mass surrender or acceptance of Russian dominance.

 

Impact on Putin’s Image

While the Western narrative often portrays Putin as weakened by the war in Ukraine, Russia’s psychological warfare has succeeded mainly in projecting him as an even stronger leader, both domestically and among some international audiences.

Russia has effectively presented the Ukraine war as a fight for national survival against the West, rallying both elites and the public behind Putin. The Russian narrative frames the war not as an invasion of Ukraine but as a defensive struggle against NATO and Western aggression. This narrative positions Putin as the leader defending Russian sovereignty and traditions against Western imperialism, liberalism, and decadence. State media constantly refers to the war as the “Great Patriotic War 2.0,” drawing parallels with WWII to reinforce the idea of national struggle. The Kremlin has portrayed Putin as the last stronghold against Western cultural and moral decay. Messaging around traditional values, national pride, and resistance to globalisation strengthens his appeal among conservative Russians and foreign audiences in the Global South.  The War has allowed Putin to eliminate political threats, tighten control over society, and silence opposition, reinforcing his image as an unchallenged ruler.

Western leaders expected economic collapse from sanctions, but Russia’s economic resilience has strengthened Putin’s image as a leader who can outmanoeuvre Western pressure. Despite unprecedented Western sanctions, Russia avoided a total economic collapse. Trade was rerouted through China, India, Turkey, and the Middle East, showing Putin’s ability to adapt and counter Western strategies. State propaganda framed sanctions as proof of Russia’s global importance. Putin positioned himself as the leader who could make Russia self-sufficient, reducing its reliance on the West.

 

Influence on Europe.

Russia’s psychological warfare has significantly influenced Europe’s collective response to the war in Ukraine, exploiting political, economic, and social vulnerabilities to create divisions and slow decision-making. While the European Union (EU) has managed to maintain a generally pro-Ukraine stance, Russian psy ops have repeatedly tested and weakened European cohesion on military aid, sanctions, and strategic policy.

 Exploiting Political Divisions in Europe. Russia has effectively deepened political polarisation within and among European nations by amplifying opposing narratives across the political spectrum. Right-wing nationalist movements have been targeted with anti-Ukraine rhetoric, portraying the war as an unnecessary financial burden. Simultaneously, left-wing anti-interventionist factions have been influenced to frame NATO and Western military aid as imperialist warmongering. Additionally, Russian information campaigns have sown doubts about Ukraine’s governance, corruption, and war prospects, eroding the moral justification for sustained European support. For example, pro-Russian political factions in Hungary, Slovakia, and parts of Germany have advocated for diplomatic negotiations with Russia over continued military aid to Ukraine. This has complicated EU-wide decision-making, as unanimous support is often required for major foreign policy measures. Far-right and populist parties in Hungary, Slovakia, and Italy have leveraged Russian-aligned narratives to challenge the EU consensus. Hungary’s Orbán, for instance, has stalled EU sanction packages (e.g., the 13th package in late 2024) by citing “peace” over confrontation, aligning with Kremlin talking points and fracturing policy cohesion.

 Weakening European Resolve on Military Aid. Russia has employed psychological pressure to deter European military assistance to Ukraine. Moscow frequently warns that Western arms supplies could escalate the conflict into a direct NATO-Russia war. President Vladimir Putin’s nuclear threats have had a chilling effect, particularly in Germany, where concerns over escalation delayed the provision of Leopard 2 tanks and later raised hesitations about supplying long-range Taurus missiles. Public opinion has also been a battleground for Russian influence. Moscow-backed media and social media campaigns have exaggerated the economic hardships caused by military aid, fuelling war fatigue. In Germany and France, protests calling for peace talks have been driven by narratives echoing Russian disinformation. In countries like France, polls from early 2025 show that 66% support EU aid to Ukraine, but 78% oppose troop deployment unless it is part of a peace deal. In Germany, scepticism about prolonged support grows amid economic pressures, with some voters echoing Russian claims of “war fatigue” amplified online. These divisions weaken the political will for a unified, robust response.

Economic Warfare and the Energy Weapon. Russia’s historical leverage over Europe’s energy supply has been a key psychological tool. The 2022 energy crisis, exacerbated by Russia’s gas cutoffs, heightened European economic fears. Russian psywar further exaggerated the risks of economic collapse, intensifying divisions within the EU. Under Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, Hungary has been a prominent example of how Russian energy influence can weaken EU unity. Orbán has repeatedly blocked or diluted Russian oil and gas sanctions, citing economic concerns. Additionally, Russia has cultivated business relationships in Germany, Italy, and Hungary to lobby against stronger sanctions, delaying EU consensus on measures such as price caps on Russian energy exports.

Encouraging Fractures in NATO and the EU. Russia has sought to drive a wedge between Europe and the United States by portraying Washington as manipulating the war for its strategic benefit. This narrative has traction among European leaders who advocate for greater strategic autonomy. French President Emmanuel Macron, for example, has suggested that Europe develop a more independent security framework rather than relying solely on NATO. Russian psyops have also exacerbated differences between Eastern and Western Europe. Poland and the Baltic states have been staunch supporters of Ukraine, pushing for aggressive military aid and sanctions. In contrast, France, Germany, and Italy have sometimes been more hesitant, leading to internal EU friction. Russia amplifies these divisions to slow collective decision-making, delaying much-needed aid to Ukraine.

 

Conclusion

Russia’s psychological warfare in Ukraine has proven to be a sophisticated and adaptive strategy that not only targets Ukraine’s internal stability but also seeks to fracture the unity of its Western allies. By deploying a combination of information management, cyber-attacks, and strategic political manoeuvres, Russia has managed to unsettle a coherent European response by amplifying divisions, fostering hesitation, and exploiting vulnerabilities. It hasn’t derailed EU support for Ukraine but has slowed and fragmented it.

Russia’s psywar has reinforced Putin’s strongman image by shaping domestic narratives, exploiting Western vulnerabilities, and asserting global influence. While it hasn’t overturned the Western perspective entirely, it has created a parallel reality where Putin’s strength is maintained and enhanced, particularly among Russian and non-Western audiences. Whether this perception holds as the war evolves remains uncertain, but for now, Russia’s psywar has undeniably kept Putin’s strongman myth alive and potent.

 

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Disclaimer:

Information and data included in the blog are for educational & non-commercial purposes only and have been carefully adapted, excerpted, or edited from reliable and accurate sources. All copyrighted material belongs to respective owners and is provided only for wider dissemination.

 

References:-

  1. Thomas, Timothy. 2021. “Russian Military Thought: Concepts of Psychological Operations.” Journal of Slavic Military Studies 34 (1): 1-24.
  1. NATO Strategic Communications Centre of Excellence. 2022. “Russia’s Grand Strategy in the Information Space.” Riga: NATO StratCom COE.
  1. RAND Corporation. 2021. “Russian Information Warfare: The Role of Narrative and Propaganda.” Santa Monica, CA: RAND Corporation.
  1. European Council on Foreign Relations. 2022. “The Kremlin’s Playbook: Russia’s Information Operations in Europe.”
  1. Carnegie Europe. 2022. “Why Europe is Struggling to Counter Russian Information Warfare.” Brussels: Carnegie Europe.
  1. European Union External Action Service (EEAS). 2023. “Russia’s Disinformation Ecosystem and its Impact on Europe.”
  1. Chatham House. 2023. “Putin’s Strongman Image and the Role of Propaganda.” London: Chatham House.
  1. The Atlantic Council. 2023. “The Resilience of Putin’s Popularity Amid Western Sanctions.” Washington, D.C.: The Atlantic Council.
  1. The Wilson Center. 2022. “How Putin Weaponises Weakness Perception.” Washington, D.C.: The Wilson Center.
  1. Harding, Luke. 2023. Invasion: Russia’s Bloody War and Ukraine’s Fight for Survival. London: Guardian Faber.
  1. Kofman, Michael, and Rob Lee. 2024. “Assessing Ukraine’s Strategy Amidst Western Uncertainty.” War on the Rocks, February 10, 2024.
  1. The Guardian. 2024. “EU Divided Over Continued Support for Ukraine.” March 2024.
  1. NATO Strategic Communications Centre of Excellence. Reports on Russian Information Warfare. Accessed March 2024.
  1. Brookings Institution. 2023. “The West’s Cognitive Dissonance on Russia: A Strategic Weakness.” Washington, D.C.: Brookings Institution.

635: IAF’S WINGS OF INDIGENISATION: THE IAF-HAL SAGA

 

My Article was published in the Life of Soldier Journal on April 25.

 

Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) has been in the spotlight for its recent achievements and challenges. The company has secured significant defence contracts, including a deal for LCA Tejas Mk1A fighter jets and a substantial agreement for Indigenous helicopters. HAL has also made strides in the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) program, enhancing India’s aerospace capabilities. However, the company has faced scrutiny over production delays and concerns raised by the Indian Air Force regarding aircraft availability.

 

The Indian Air Force (IAF) has been a stalwart in the pursuit of indigenisation, a strategic move to reduce dependence on foreign suppliers and bolster national security. Key initiatives include the induction of HAL’s Tejas fighter jets, the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) development, and the procurement of indigenous helicopters like the Light Combat Helicopter (LCH) Prachand. The IAF’s investments in indigenous UAVs, radars, and advanced weapon systems are a testament to its commitment to enhancing self-reliance. While challenges persist, a collaborative effort between the IAF, HAL, and private industry is pivotal in realising India’s vision of a robust and self-sufficient aerospace defence ecosystem.

 

India’s journey towards self-reliance in defence aviation has been long and complex, with the Indian Air Force (IAF) and Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) playing pivotal roles. Achievements, setbacks, and continued aspirations for indigenisation have marked the relationship between these two institutions. While HAL has been the backbone of India’s military aviation industry, the IAF has often raised concerns over delays, quality issues, and technological limitations. This article explores the evolution of this partnership, its challenges, and the way forward for India’s indigenous aerospace ambitions.

 

HAL was founded in 1940 as Hindustan Aircraft Limited and nationalised in 1964. Over the decades, it has been responsible for manufacturing, assembling, and maintaining various aircraft for the IAF, ranging from early license-built fighters to the Indigenous Tejas fighter jet. HAL has played a crucial role in India’s defence self-sufficiency by working on aircraft like the HF-24 Marut, Dhruv helicopters, and, more recently, the LCA Tejas and AMCA (Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft) projects.

 

The Indian Air Force (IAF) has always been a strong advocate for the development of indigenous defence production capability, a key result area for the IAF. The IAF has played a crucial role in creating an aerospace ecosystem in India, operating indigenously built aircraft and those built by HAL under licence production, which has given impetus to the indigenous industry in the past. The IAF’s support for indigenised inductions and projects is evident in its involvement in the following initiatives:

 

    • Induction of LCA (IOC, FOC, Mk I and Mk 1A) and support to LCA Mk II and AMCA.
    • Induction of Ajeet and HF-24 Marut ac in the past.
    • Induction of AEW&C ac and support to indigenous AWACS project.
    • Induction of indigenous helicopter ALH and support to LCH.
    • Induction of Trainer aircraft (Kiran Mk I and Mk II, HT-2, HPT & HTT-40 aircraft).
    • Support to the replacement of Avro aircraft through the make-in-India route.
    • Integration and operationalisation of Astra Air to Air Missile and Brahmos Air to surface missiles.
    • Integration of weapons like the New Generation Anti-tank Missile, Smart anti-airfield weapons, new generation anti-radiation missiles, and Glide bombs.

 

IAF’s Dependence on HAL. HAL’s contribution to the IAF has been significant, with aircraft like the MiG-21, Jaguar, Su-30MKI, and Hawk trainers being produced or assembled under license. However, the IAF has sometimes expressed concerns over HAL’s efficiency, particularly regarding production delays, maintenance backlogs, and a lack of cutting-edge technology. The slow pace of the LCA Tejas program and delays in upgrades of existing fleets have strained the relationship between the two.

 

Success Stories: HAL’s Contributions to IAF. Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) has been the cornerstone of India’s military aviation industry, supporting the Indian Air Force (IAF) for over eight decades. From license-producing early-generation fighters to developing Indigenous aircraft and helicopters, HAL has made significant strides in enhancing India’s self-reliance in defence aviation. Despite facing challenges, its contributions have been instrumental in shaping the IAF’s combat capabilities, a fact that we, as a nation, should deeply appreciate and respect.

 

HAL’s association with the IAF began with the production of British-origin Hawker Tempest aircraft in the 1940s. However, its true contribution to India’s air power started in the 1960s when it began license manufacturing the MiG-21 under Soviet collaboration. The MiG-21 became the backbone of the IAF for decades, with HAL producing over 600 aircraft. These fighters played a crucial role in conflicts like the 1971 Indo-Pak War and the Kargil War (1999). During the same period, HAL made its first attempt at designing an indigenous fighter—the HF-24 Marut, India’s first home-grown jet.  The lessons learned from this project laid the foundation for future indigenous aircraft programs. In the 1980s, HAL was critical in assembling and maintaining the SEPECAT Jaguar, a deep-strike fighter that remains a vital part of the IAF’s fleet. HAL later upgraded the Jaguar under the DARIN modernisation programs, equipping it with modern avionics and weaponry.

 

Su-30MKI: The Backbone of the IAF. One of HAL’s biggest success stories has been the license production of the Su-30MKI, India’s premier air superiority fighter. Since the early 2000s, HAL has built over 270 Su-30MKIs, making them the most numerous and capable aircraft in the IAF’s fleet. The company has also integrated indigenous systems into the Su-30MKI, such as BrahMos-A supersonic cruise missiles, further enhancing its strike capability.

 

LCA Tejas: India’s Indigenous Fighter Jet. The Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas is a landmark achievement for HAL and India’s defence industry. After initial delays, Tejas was inducted into the IAF. The improved Tejas Mk1A, featuring advanced radar, electronic warfare systems, and upgraded weapons, is expected to be inducted soon. Developing the Tejas Mk2, Twin-Engine Deck-Based Fighter (TEDBF), and fifth-generation AMCA showcases HAL’s progress toward advanced indigenous fighters.

 

Indigenous Helicopters: ALH Dhruv, LCH, and LUH. HAL strengthened the IAF’s rotary-wing capabilities with the Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH) Dhruv and its armed variant, Rudra. Another significant achievement is the Light Combat Helicopter (LCH) Prachand, designed for high-altitude operations in Ladakh and Siachen. HAL has also developed the Light Utility Helicopter (LUH) to replace ageing Cheetah and Chetak helicopters.

 

The Challenges

Despite HAL’s significant contributions to the Indian Air Force (IAF), several challenges continue to hinder their partnership, affecting operational readiness and modernisation efforts. One of the most pressing concerns is production delays, which have consistently impacted the induction of critical platforms. The slow pace of Tejas fighter production, delays in the upgrade program, and prolonged timelines for overhauls have led to capability gaps in the IAF. These setbacks have forced the IAF to rely on older aircraft, delaying modernisation. Another significant issue is quality control, with HAL facing criticism over the reliability of its manufactured and overhauled aircraft. The users have raised concerns about technical faults, maintenance inefficiencies, and accidents of some HAL-built platforms, leading to questions about overall workmanship and durability. HAL’s slow adoption of new technologies has also affected India’s ability to match global defence standards. Unlike leading aerospace firms, HAL struggles with R&D investments and innovation, leading to dependence on foreign suppliers for engines, avionics, and weapon systems.

 

The Way Ahead for HAL: Strengthening India’s Aerospace Future

It is time for HAL to leave behind past setbacks, tackle challenges, and move on with renewed determination. Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) must adopt a multi-pronged approach. Enhancing innovation, investing in R&D, fostering collaborations, and streamlining production can make it a stronger, future-ready HAL that is ready to drive India’s aerospace future, ensuring self-reliance and global competitiveness in defence manufacturing.

Enhancing Production Efficiency. HAL needs to streamline its manufacturing and assembly processes to reduce production delays. Modern automation, digital manufacturing, and lean production techniques can significantly reduce production time. Strengthening supply chains and increasing outsourcing to private-sector firms will also boost production efficiency.

Strengthening Quality Control. HAL must revamp its quality assurance mechanisms to address users’ concerns. A stringent inspection and testing framework at every stage of aircraft manufacturing and overhaul processes will ensure higher reliability and safety. Implementing global best practices and learning from established aerospace giants can help improve production standards.

Investing in Advanced R&D. One of HAL’s most significant drawbacks is its slow pace of technological innovation. To bridge this gap, HAL must increase investments in indigenous research and development (R&D), particularly in engines, avionics, stealth technology, and composite materials. Stronger collaboration with DRDO, ISRO, and academic institutions can accelerate innovation in next-generation aircraft and air combat systems.

Strengthening the Private Sector Collaboration. Public-private partnerships will be key to HAL’s future success. Companies like Tata, L&T, and Mahindra Defence are emerging as strong players in the defence aviation sector. HAL must leverage these partnerships for joint development, co-production, and component outsourcing, improving efficiency and reducing costs.

Reforming Organisational and Management Structure. HAL must transition from a bureaucratic public-sector enterprise to a more agile, corporate-driven entity to compete globally. Introducing performance-based accountability, faster decision-making mechanisms, and strategic planning frameworks will enable HAL to operate more efficiently.

Commitment to Future Programs. HAL must stay committed to high-priority projects like the Tejas Mk II, Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA), and Twin Engine Deck-Based Fighter (TEDBF). These programs will define the future of Indian military aviation and ensure long-term self-reliance.

Focusing on Export Potential. HAL must actively market its aircraft, helicopters, and UAVs to international customers. The Tejas LCA, LCH Prachand, and Dhruv helicopters have attracted global interest. Expanding exports will generate revenue and establish India as a key defence exporter.

 

Conclusion

HAL stands at a crucial juncture and must evolve into a world-class defence aerospace manufacturer. By focusing on efficiency, innovation, private sector collaboration, and exports, HAL can not only strengthen the IAF but also contribute significantly to India’s goal of self-reliance in defence manufacturing (Atmanirbhar Bharat).

 

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634: EXERCISE INIOCHOS-25: IAF ON BOARD CHARIOTEER

 

My Article was Published on The EurasianTimes Website on 01 April 25.

 

The Indian Air Force (IAF) has steadily emerged as a formidable player in the global defence landscape, showcasing its capabilities through participation in multinational exercises worldwide. The Iniochos exercise, hosted annually by Greece’s Hellenic Air Force (HAF), is a prestigious and tactically significant event. The IAF’s involvement in this exercise, particularly in editions such as Iniochos-23 and the upcoming Iniochos-25, underscores India’s growing commitment to enhancing interoperability, refining combat skills, and strengthening military ties with friendly nations.

 

IAF in Iniochos – 25

The Indian Air Force (IAF) is participating in Exercise INIOCHOS-25, a prestigious multinational air exercise hosted by the Hellenic Air Force. The exercise is taking place at Andravida Air Base in Greece from March 31 to April 11, 2025. The IAF has deployed a contingent that includes Su-30 MKI fighter jets, IL-78 mid-air refuelers, and C-17 Globemaster transport aircraft.

INIOCHOS is a biennial event designed to enhance tactical skills, foster interoperability, and strengthen military ties among participating air forces. This year’s exercise involves air and surface assets from fifteen countries, simulating realistic combat scenarios that reflect modern air warfare challenges. Participating nations in INIOCHOS-25 include France, Israel, Italy, Montenegro, Poland, Qatar, Slovenia, Spain, the United Arab Emirates, the United States, Cyprus, Bahrain, and Slovakia.

The exercise encompasses various operations such as Offensive counter air Operations, Defensive counter air Operations, Strategic Air Operations, Air Power Contribution to Counter-Land and maritime operations, Reconnaissance Missions, Combat Search and Rescue, Time-Sensitive Targeting, and protection of High-Value Airborne Assets.

The IAF’s participation aims to provide an opportunity to train in planning and executing combined air operations in complex air warfare scenarios and gain insights into operational best practices. It also aims to improve operational readiness, refine tactics and enhance international cooperation, synergy, and interoperability with other participating air forces. This engagement underscores India’s commitment to global defence collaboration and its focus on operational excellence through joint operations with friendly countries.

 

The Iniochos Exercise: An Overview.

Exercise Iniochos, named after the ancient Greek term for “charioteer” or “rein-holder,” is an annual multinational air exercise conducted by the Hellenic Air Force. Originating in the late 1980s as a small-scale tactical drill, it has evolved into one of Europe’s most competitive and realistic air combat training platforms. Based on the “Single Base Concept,” the exercise operates entirely from the Andravida Air Base in northwestern Peloponnese, Greece, offering a unique operational environment that simulates modern air warfare challenges. The exercise integrates a variety of air and surface assets, creating complex scenarios that test participating forces in multi-dimensional combat operations.

Iniochos enhances international cooperation, synergy, and interoperability among participating air forces. It features realistic combat scenarios involving air superiority missions, anti-surface warfare, combat search and rescue, and operations against integrated air defence systems. The exercise’s dynamic nature and high-tempo rhythm provide a rigorous training ground for air forces to refine tactics, exchange operational knowledge, and build professional relationships. Over the years, it has attracted participants from NATO and non-NATO countries alike, including the United States, France, Italy, Israel, Saudi Arabia, and, more recently, India.

 

The IAF’s Entry into Iniochos.

The Indian Air Force first participated in Exercise Iniochos in 2023 (Iniochos-23), marking a significant milestone in its engagement with European air forces. This debut followed a series of overseas exercises that year, including Exercise Desert Flag in the UAE, Exercise Cobra Warrior in the UK, and Exercise Orion in France. The IAF’s participation in Iniochos-23, held from April 24 to May 4, 2023, at Andravida Air Base, involved a contingent of four Sukhoi Su-30 MKI multirole fighters and two C-17 Globemaster III strategic transport aircraft. This deployment showcased the IAF’s ability to project power over long distances and operate seamlessly in a multinational framework.

During Iniochos-23, the IAF contingent operated alongside aircraft such as French Rafales, U.S. F-16s, Italian Tornados, and Greek F-4Es and Mirage 2000s. The exercise involved a mix of air-to-air and air-to-ground missions, with participants facing simulated threats from surface-based air defences and adversary aircraft. The IAF’s Su-30 MKIs played a key role in offensive and defensive operations, leveraging their agility and firepower to contribute to mission success. The professional interactions facilitated by the exercise allowed IAF pilots and ground crews to share best practices with their counterparts, gaining insights into NATO-standard tactics and procedures.

 

Operational Contributions of the IAF

The IAF brings a unique blend of capabilities and experience to the Iniochos exercise, enhancing its value for all participants. The Sukhoi Su-30 MKI, a twinjet multirole fighter developed by Russia and license-built by India’s Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), is a cornerstone of the IAF’s contribution. With its advanced avionics, long-range radar, and ability to carry a diverse array of weapons, including air-to-air and air-to-ground munitions, the Su-30 MKI is well-suited for the complex scenarios of Iniochos. Its versatility allows the IAF to engage in air superiority missions, strike operations, and coordinated manoeuvres with other aircraft types.

Including C-17 Globemaster III aircraft in Iniochos-23 and Iniochos-25 demonstrates the IAF’s logistical prowess. Capable of transporting troops, equipment, and supplies over vast distances, the C-17 ensures that the IAF contingent remains self-sufficient during the exercise. In Iniochos-25, adding IL-78 refuellers further enhances operational flexibility, enabling extended missions and mid-air refuelling for the Su-30 MKIs. This capability is particularly valuable in simulating long-range strike operations and sustaining high-intensity combat scenarios, aligning with the exercise’s focus on realism.

 

Objectives and Benefits for the IAF

The IAF’s participation in Iniochos serves multiple strategic and operational objectives. The exercise enhances the IAF’s combat readiness by exposing its personnel to realistic, high-threat scenarios. The Hellenic Air Force’s use of advanced debriefing tools, such as GPS trackers, Link 16 data, and shot assessment software, provides detailed feedback on mission performance. This allows IAF pilots to refine their tactics, improve decision-making under pressure, and align their skills with international standards.

Interoperability is another key benefit. Operating alongside air forces with diverse equipment and doctrines—from U.S. F-15s and MQ-9 drones to French Rafales and Saudi F-15s—challenges the IAF to effectively integrate its platforms and procedures. This experience is invaluable for joint operations in potential future coalitions, whether in peacekeeping missions, disaster response, or regional security contingencies. The IAF’s exposure to NATO-aligned forces also bridges the gap between Eastern and Western military practices, enhancing its versatility.

Professionally, Iniochos fosters camaraderie and mutual learning. The exercise’s intensive schedule, which often spans from pre-dawn briefings to late-night debriefs, creates opportunities for IAF personnel to engage with their counterparts from Greece, the U.S., France, and other nations. These interactions provide insights into operational best practices, maintenance techniques, and mission planning strategies, enriching the IAF’s institutional knowledge.

Strategically, the IAF’s participation signals India’s commitment to global defence cooperation. India strengthens its military diplomacy by engaging in exercises like Iniochos and building trust and goodwill with Greece and other participating nations. This aligns with India’s broader foreign policy goals of fostering partnerships in the Mediterranean and European regions, complementing its traditional focus on the Indo-Pacific.

 

Broader Implications for India’s Defence Strategy

The IAF’s involvement in Iniochos reflects a broader shift in India’s defence strategy toward greater international engagement and operational excellence. Historically focused on regional security challenges, particularly along its borders with Pakistan and China, the IAF has increasingly sought to project power and build capabilities for global operations. Exercises like Iniochos, conducted thousands of kilometers from Indian soil, demonstrate the IAF’s ability to deploy and sustain forces overseas—a critical capability in an era of expanding geopolitical interests.

This participation also enhances India’s strategic partnerships. As a NATO member with a strategic location in the Mediterranean, Greece offers India a valuable ally in countering shared challenges such as terrorism, maritime security threats, and regional instability. The IAF’s presence in Iniochos strengthens bilateral defence ties, paving the way for potential collaborations in training, technology exchange, and joint exercises beyond the annual event.

Moreover, the IAF’s experience in Iniochos contributes to its modernisation efforts. Exposure to advanced aircraft, such as the French Rafale (which the IAF also operates) and U.S. F-15s, provides a benchmark for evaluating its platforms and tactics. Lessons learned from the exercise can inform the IAF’s ongoing acquisition programs, including integrating new fighters, unmanned systems, and network-centric warfare capabilities.

 

Conclusion

The Indian Air Force’s participation in the Iniochos exercise marks a significant chapter in its journey toward becoming a globally respected air power. Through its deployments in Iniochos-23 and the upcoming Iniochos-25, the IAF demonstrates its operational prowess, logistical reach, and commitment to international cooperation. The exercise hones the IAF’s combat skills and reinforces India’s strategic partnerships, aligning with its vision of a secure and interconnected world. As the IAF continues to soar in foreign skies, its role in exercises like Iniochos will remain a testament to its evolving capabilities and enduring resolve.

 

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IAF Joins INIOCHOS-25 With Su-30 MKI Fighters; Here’s What Makes ‘Mediterranean Drills’ Vital For India

 

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Information and data included in the blog are for educational & non-commercial purposes only and have been carefully adapted, excerpted, or edited from reliable and accurate sources. All copyrighted material belongs to respective owners and is provided only for wider dissemination.

 

 

References:-​

  1. “Indian Air Force To Display Skills In Multinational Exercise In Greece”. NDTV, March 30, 2025.​
  1. “Indian Air Force to Participate in INIOCHOS-25: A Multi-Nation Air Exercise”. Adda247, March 31, 2025.​
  1. “IAF To Participate In Multi-Nation Iniochos Exercise On March 31”. StratNews Global, March 31, 2025.​
  1. “Indian Air Force’s Su-30 MKI fighters, IL-78 & C-17 aircraft in Greece for 15-nation war drill INIOCHOS-25”. The Week, March 31, 2025.​
  1. “IAF to participate in multinational air exercise in Greece”. The Statesman, March 30, 2025.​
  1. “Indian Air Force to participate in multi-nation air exercise INIOCHOS 25”. Ministry of Defence, Government of India, March 30, 2025.
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