India, Singapore Air Forces Hold Third Joint Exercise

New Delhi, Nov 8 (UNI) The third Joint Indo-Singapore Air Force Exercise, codenamed SINDEX, began today at the Kalaikunda Air Force Station, near Kharagpur in West Bengal.

The three-week-long exercise -- between the Indian Air Force (IAF) and Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF) -- affords the island nation's air arm the vast skies required for training.

Besides, SINDEX is seen being extremely beneficial towards enhancing mutual cooperation between India and Singapore and for the two Air Forces to learn from each other's operational philosophy and tactics.

The F-16 fighter aircraft of the RSAF and the MiG-27 and Bison fighter aircraft of the IAF are participating in the upcoming exercise. Besides the pilots, fighter controllers, air traffic controllers and radar system operators of both the Air Forces will participate in the exercise.

A host of other support staff will also be involved in managing engineering, logistics and administrative issues, an official spokesperson here said.

Air Force Station Kalaikunda came into existence during the Second World War as a forward airfield. This base has played a vital role in all the wars fought by India post-independence. Presently, it is one of the major IAF air bases for hosting international air exercises.

UNI DG VD BS1934