646: PRECISION FROM AFAR: INDIA’S GLIDE BOMBS AND THE CHANGING FACE OF WARFARE

 

My Article was published on the EurasianTimes Website

on 13 April 25.

 

In early April 2025, India successfully tested two indigenously developed glide bombs. The first, Long-Range Glide Bomb (LRGB) named “Gaurav,” was tested between April 8 and 10, 2025, from a Sukhoi Su-30 MKI fighter jet of the Indian Air Force (IAF). This 1,000-kg class bomb, designed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) in collaboration with Research Centre Imarat, Armament Research and Development Establishment, and Integrated Test Range, Chandipur, demonstrated a range close to 100 kilometers with pinpoint accuracy. The trials involved multiple warhead configurations and targeted a land-based site on an island, paving the way for its induction into the IAF. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and DRDO Chairman Dr. Samir V. Kamat praised the achievement, highlighting its role in enhancing India’s standoff strike capabilities and self-reliance in defence technology.

The second was the lightweight “Glide” bomb, called the SAAW (Smart Anti-Airfield Weapon), which the IAF and DRDO test-fired in Odisha. The SAAW is a lightweight, precision-guided bomb designed to target enemy airfields, runways, bunkers, and other reinforced structures at ranges up to 100 kilometers. Weighing approximately 125 kilograms, it features advanced guidance systems, including electro-optical sensors, for high accuracy. The weapon has been integrated with platforms like the Jaguar and Su-30 MKI, with plans to equip it on the Dassault Rafale and HAL Tejas MK1A. Three tests were carried out under varying release conditions and ranges, all successful. The DRDO Chairman announced that the SAAW is set for imminent induction into the armed forces, enhancing India’s precision-guided munitions arsenal.

These developments underscore India’s push toward indigenous defence solutions amid regional competition. Both bombs offer cost-effective, accurate, and standoff strike options to engage targets while keeping aircraft beyond enemy air defences. In the ever-evolving landscape of modern warfare, long-range glide bombs have emerged as a transformative technology, blending precision, affordability, and strategic flexibility. These munitions, designed to glide over extended distances to strike targets with pinpoint accuracy, have redefined how militaries project power, neutralise threats, and minimise risks to personnel and assets.

 

Long-Range Glide Bombs

Long-range glide bombs, sometimes called standoff glide munitions, are unpowered or minimally powered precision-guided weapons that rely on aerodynamic lift to travel extended distances after being released from an aircraft. Unlike traditional free-fall bombs, glide bombs have wings or fins that allow them to glide toward their target, often covering ranges from tens to hundreds of kilometers. They typically incorporate advanced guidance systems—such as GPS, inertial navigation, or laser homing—to ensure accuracy, even against moving or heavily defended targets.

The effectiveness of long-range glide bombs lies in their simplicity and adaptability. A typical glide bomb consists of several key components:-

    • Warhead. The explosive payload can range from 100 kilograms to over a ton, depending on the target. Warheads may be high-explosive, bunker-busting, or fragmentation-based.
    • Guidance System. Most glide bombs use a combination of GPS and inertial navigation for all-weather accuracy. Some advanced models incorporate laser or infrared seekers for terminal guidance, enabling strikes on moving targets.
    • Aerodynamic Surfaces. Foldable wings or fins provide lift, allowing the bomb to glide efficiently. The glide ratio—distance travelled per unit of altitude lost—determines the weapon’s range.
    • Control Unit. An onboard computer processes navigation data and adjusts control surfaces to keep the bomb on course.

When deployed, a glide bomb is released at a high altitude (typically 30,000–40,000 feet) and high speed. The launch aircraft’s momentum and altitude provide the initial energy, while the bomb’s wings extend to maximise the glide distance. As it descends, the guidance system corrects its trajectory, ensuring it hits within meters of the intended target. Some systems, like the U.S.’s Small Diameter Bomb (SDB) GBU-39, can achieve ranges exceeding 100 kilometers under optimal conditions.

These munitions bridge the gap between conventional bombs and cruise missiles. While cruise missiles are self-propelled and highly autonomous, they are expensive and complex. Glide bombs, by contrast, are more cost-effective.

 

Historical Context and Global Developments

The concept of glide bombs dates back to World War II, with early examples like Germany’s Fritz-X, a radio-guided bomb used to attack ships. However, these primitive weapons lacked the range and precision of modern systems. The development of long-range glide bombs gained momentum in the late 20th century as advancements in electronics, aerodynamics, and satellite navigation enabled greater accuracy and standoff capabilities.

The U.S. military’s Joint Direct Attack Munition (JDAM) program, introduced in the 1990s, marked a significant milestone. JDAM kits transform unguided “dumb” bombs into precision-guided munitions by adding tail fins and GPS guidance. While early JDAMs had limited range, subsequent variants like the JDAM-ER (Extended Range) incorporated foldable wings, extending their reach to over 70 kilometers. Other nations, including Russia, China, and European powers, have since developed their glide bomb systems, such as Russia’s KAB-500 series and China’s LS-6 precision-guided bombs.

Recent conflicts, particularly in Ukraine and the Middle East, have showcased the growing prominence of glide bombs. For example, Russia has extensively used glide bombs like the FAB-500-M62 with UMPK kits, allowing Su-34 and Su-35 aircraft to strike targets from beyond the reach of short-range air defences. Similarly, Western-supplied glide bombs, such as France’s AASM Hammer, have been employed by Ukraine to target Russian positions with high precision.

 

Strategic Advantages

Long-range glide bombs offer several strategic benefits that make them indispensable in modern warfare:-

    • Standoff Capability. Gliding bombs allow aircraft to strike from beyond the range of enemy air defences, reducing the risk to pilots and platforms. This is particularly valuable against adversaries with sophisticated surface-to-air missile systems.
    • Cost-Effectiveness. Compared to cruise missiles, which can cost millions per unit, glide bombs are far cheaper. For example, a JDAM-ER kit costs around $20,000–$40,000, making it a budget-friendly option for precision strikes.
    • Versatility. Glide bombs can be tailored to various targets, from fortified bunkers to mobile convoys. Modular warheads and guidance systems allow militaries to adapt them for specific missions.
    • Mass Deployment. Because they are relatively inexpensive and easy to produce, glide bombs can be used in large numbers to overwhelm defences or saturate key targets.
    • Reduced Collateral Damage. Precision guidance minimises unintended destruction, making glide bombs suitable for urban environments or near civilian infrastructure.

 

Challenges and Limitations

Despite their advantages, long-range glide bombs are not without drawbacks. Their unpowered nature makes them dependent on the launch platform’s altitude and speed, limiting their range compared to powered missiles. Additionally, while GPS guidance is efficient, it can be disrupted by electronic jamming or spoofing, as seen in conflicts like Ukraine, where Russian forces have employed electronic warfare to degrade GPS-dependent munitions. Glide bombs are also vulnerable to advanced air defences if launched within the interceptors’ range. For instance, systems like the Patriot or S-400 can engage glide bombs at certain altitudes and distances.

 

Global Proliferation and Future Trends

The proliferation of long-range glide bombs is reshaping global military dynamics. Countries like India, Turkey, and South Korea are investing heavily in indigenous glide bomb programs. At the same time, non-state actors and smaller nations seek access to these technologies through exports or reverse-engineering. This democratisation of precision strike capability could complicate future conflicts, enabling asymmetric actors to challenge stronger adversaries.

Future advancements in artificial intelligence and autonomous navigation will likely enhance glide bomb capabilities. AI-driven guidance could allow bombs to adapt to jamming or dynamically select targets in real time. Hypersonic glide bombs, which combine high speed with extended range and are also under development, promise to blur the line between bombs and missiles further.

 

Conclusion

Strategically, glide bombs shift the balance between offense and defence. By enabling standoff strikes, they challenge traditional air defence paradigms, forcing adversaries to invest in more advanced countermeasures. This arms race could drive up military spending and destabilise regions already prone to conflict.

Long-range glide bombs represent a pivotal evolution in precision warfare, offering militaries a cost-effective, versatile, and low-risk means of projecting power. Their ability to strike from a distance accurately has made them a cornerstone of modern arsenals, from superpowers to emerging nations. However, their proliferation and potential for misuse underscore the need to consider their ethical and strategic implications carefully. As technology advances, glide bombs will likely play an even more significant role in shaping the battlefields of tomorrow, balancing destructive power with the promise of precision.

 

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Bomb, Missile Or A Fusion? India Turns To Long-Range Glide Bombs That Proved “Effective” In Ukraine War

 

References and credits

To all the online sites and channels.

Pics Courtesy: Internet

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. Press Information Bureau (PIB), Government of India. “Successful Flight-Test of Indigenous Glide Bombs ‘Gaurav’ and ‘SAAW'”. PIB, April 11, 2025.
  1. Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), “DRDO Conducts Successful Trials of ‘Gaurav’ and ‘SAAW’ Glide Bombs”, DRDO, April 10, 2025.
  1. The Hindu, “India Successfully Tests Indigenous Glide Bombs ‘Gaurav’ and ‘SAAW'”, The Hindu, April 12, 2025.
  1. Hindustan Times, “DRDO’s ‘Gaurav’ and ‘SAAW’ Glide Bombs Set for Induction into IAF”, Hindustan Times, April 12, 2025.
  2. Livefist Defence, “Inside India’s Glide Bomb Program: ‘Gaurav’ and ‘SAAW’ Take Flight”, Livefist Defence, April 11, 2025.
  1. Observer Research Foundation (ORF), “India’s Glide Bomb Advancements: Strategic Implications and Regional Dynamics”, ORF, April 2025.
  1. Institute for Defence Studies and Analyses (IDSA), “Enhancing Precision Strike Capabilities: The Role of ‘Gaurav’ and ‘SAAW'”, IDSA, April 2025.
  1. Jane’s Defence Weekly. “DRDO’s Gaurav and Gautham: India’s Smart Glide Bombs Take Shape.” Janes.com, August 2023.
  1. IISS. “India’s Precision Strike Capabilities: Strategy and Deployment.” Strategic Dossier, International Institute for Strategic Studies, 2023.
  1. Defence Decode. “Gaurav vs Gautham: Decoding India’s New Air-Launched Precision Bombs.” YouTube / Defence Decode Channel, March 2024.
  1. RAND Corporation. “Emerging Military Technologies in South Asia: Glide Bombs and Beyond.” RAND Brief, 2023.

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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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. “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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