India, France, and the UAE initiated the “Desert Knight” air combat exercise over the Arabian Sea, marking a significant step in enhancing trilateral defence cooperation and interoperability among their air forces.

Key Highlights of “Desert Knight”

Objective:

• Foster better interoperability during complex combat scenarios.
• Strengthen trilateral defence ties, especially in strategically crucial regions like the Indo-Pacific and the Persian Gulf.

Participants and Assets:

Indian Air Force (IAF):

• Aircraft: Sukhoi-30MKIs, Jaguars.
• Support systems: IL-78 mid-air refuellers and AEW&C (Airborne Early-Warning and Control) systems.

French Air Force: Deployed Rafale jets.

UAE Air Force: Operated F-16 fighters from the Al Dhafra airbase in the UAE.

Combat Manoeuvres:

• Conducted over the Arabian Sea, 350-400 km southwest of Karachi.
• Described as a “large force engagement”, featuring intensive aerial combat simulations.

Strategic Context: This air combat exercise is built on the trilateral framework established in 2022 by the foreign ministers of India, France, and the UAE, encompassing areas like defence, technology, energy, and the environment.

Previous Collaborative Efforts

Trilateral Maritime Partnership Exercise (2023): Conducted by the navies of the three countries, focusing on traditional and non-traditional security threats on the high seas.

Significance of “Desert Knight”

Enhanced Collaboration:

• Reflects India’s growing defence ties with key global allies.
• Establishes a robust platform for future joint operations in critical regions.

Interoperability: Strengthens the ability of participating nations to operate seamlessly during real-world combat scenarios.

Geopolitical Implications: Demonstrates a collective resolve to maintain stability and security in regions like the Persian Gulf and the Indo-Pacific amidst evolving security challenges.