Kolkata: Indian Air Force (IAF) chief Air Chief Marshal BS Dhanoa on Wednesday visited Air Force Station (AFS) Kalaikunda and interacted with participating forces of ongoing Ex Cope India 18, a bilateral joint drill between US Air Force (USAF) and IAF.
He was received by Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief (Eastern Air Command) Air Marshl R. Nambiar and Air Commodore Saji Antony, who is the Air Officer Commanding of AFS Kalaikunda.
IAF spokesperson Wing Commander Anupam Banerjee said, “The Chief of the Air Staff was briefed in detail about various phases of the exercise and was apprised of its progress. Post briefing, Chief of the Air Staff visited the USAF and IAF detachment, wherein he interacted with the personnel of both the Air Forces. He was satisfied with the progress of the exercise and complimented all participants on their professional approach and conduct during the exercise.”
He added, “During the interaction, Chief of the Air Staff emphasised on the importance of joint exercises as they create an environment of camaraderie and an opportunity to learn from each other’s best practices in enhancing operational synergy.”
The USAF is participating with F-15, C-130J Super Hercules aircraft while IAF is participating with Su-30MKI, Mirage-2000, Jaguar, C-130J Super Hercules, AWACS and AEW&C aircraft. Besides the Special Forces from both the air forces are also participating in the exercise.
