Multinational War-game ‘Orion’ begins in France

Paris: Indian Air Force is all all set to participate in the multinational war-game Exercise 'Orion' at Mont-de-Marsan, an Air Force base of the French Air and Space Force (FASF). The exercise began on April 17, and will continue till May 5, 2023.

In a tweet, France Ambassador Emmanuel Lenain said, "France warmly welcomes the @IAF_MCC contingent that will take part in exercise #Orion2023 from today! French & Indian #Rafale jets will soon fly together in the skies of France." 

The participating IAF Contingent comprises of four Rafale, two C-17, two ll-78 aircraft and 165 air warriors. This would be the first overseas exercise for the IAF's Rafale aircraft.

Besides the IAF and the FASF, Air Forces from Germany, Greece, Italy, Netherlands, United Kingdom, Spain and United States of America would also be flying in this multilateral exercise. Participation in this exercise would further enrich the employment philosophy of the India Air Force, by imbibing the best practices from other Air Forces.

This joint exercise will provide a platform for the countries to enhance operational capability and interoperability, while also sharing best practices. 

Orion is the biggest military exercises of France till date. The exercise is taking place with the Russia-Ukraine war in the backdrop where NATO led by US is opposing the Russian moves against Ukraine.

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