Lipetsk, Russia. A joint exercise between Indian Air Force and the Air Force of the Russian Federation, Exercise Aviaindra 18, has been conducted at Lipetsk, Russia from September 17 to 28.

The second session of Aviaindra 18 would be conducted in Jodhpur, India from December 10 Dec to 22.

The Indian contingent for Ex Aviaindra departed for Russia on September 15. The contingent comprises of 30 officers from different branches and streams of IAF including four women officers of Flying, Administration and Medical Branch. The aircraft participating in the exercise include Su-30 SM, Mig-29, Su-25, Mi-8 and An-26.

The aim of the exercise is focused towards anti-terrorist operations in a bi-lateral scenario. The exercise would further enhance the co-operation and understanding each other’s Concept of Operations.

In addition to flying exercise, there would be formal interactions, discussions, exchange of ideas and friendly sports matches to enhance bonhomie between the two Air Forces.

Exercise Aviaindra is an Air Force level exercise between India and the Russian Federation. The First Aviaindra was conducted in 2014 and has been planned as a bi-annual exercise.