IAF, FAF spelled magic in the air

Kalaikunda(Airbase), Feb 21 (UNI) Kalaikunda today witnessed an India-France joint air exercise as a dozen sophisticated fighter planes criss-crossed each other at breakneck speed.

The joint exercise named Garur III, which is on show at air force station here from February 12, reached its zenith today.

The Indian Air Force was in action with Sukhoi 30 MKI, Mirage 2000 and MiG-27, while, the French Air Force participated with the modern version of Mirage 2000 D, Dash 5 and an Airborne warning Control Aircraft (AWACS).

The exercise also aimed to improve defense relations between the two countries, sources said.

'' The infrastructure of this Airbase would be improved for ther in the interest of having more such exercises in future,'' Air Marshal P K Barbora, Senior Airstaff Officer, Eastern Air Command told newsmen at a press conference today.

'' We are building up Precision Approach Rader (PAR) and adding the AWACS system next year,'' Air Marshal Barbora said.

The Air Marshal also added that after holding joint exercises with USA and Singapore, the present exercise with France had gone a long way to enhance mutual respect for each other's cultures.

Asked upon why such excersises were not held with neighbouring countries, especially Pakistan, Mr Barbora said, '' It is not the perfect time at the moment.'' '' We should move step by step,'' he added.

Meanwhile, negotiations were on to hold such exercises with China, Air Marshal Barbora said adding that after the SAARC movement would gain momentum such exercises would be possible with all the neighboring countries.

'' Indian Pilots have really reached global standards. They have immensely helped our pilots to learn about the Sukhoi operations, which is a new generation air craft. They have taught their tactics, procedures, mode of taking off and landing and Air to Air and Air To ground Firing Air Marshall of the FAF, '' her said.

It is learnt that the next joint exercise might be with these two countries.

The French Pilots including Lt Colonel Taesch and Captain Yanick Desbois said the infrastructural facilities at Kalaikunda Air Base was of a very high order.

UNI