IAF Conducts Joint Air Exercise With Royal Thai Air Force

The Indian Air Force (IAF) is undertaking a joint in-situ air exercise with the Royal Thai Air Force (RTAF), aimed at enhancing operational coordination and interoperability between the two forces. The exercise marks another milestone in expanding defence cooperation between India and Thailand.

According to the IAF, frontline platforms including Su-30MKI fighter aircraft, Airborne Warning and Control System (AWACS), Airborne Early Warning and Control (AEW&C) aircraft, and IL-78 mid-air refuelling aircraft are participating alongside RTAF’s Gripen fighter jets.

Enhancing Operational Interoperability

The joint exercise focuses on improving coordination in complex air operations. Participation of force multipliers such as AWACS and AEW&C platforms allows integration of surveillance, command and control capabilities.

The inclusion of IL-78 refuelling aircraft enhances endurance and operational reach, reflecting realistic combat scenarios and joint mission planning.

Growing Indo-Thai Defence Cooperation

India and Thailand signed a Memorandum of Understanding on Defence Cooperation on 25 January 2012. Since then, defence ties have expanded to include joint maritime patrols, annual staff talks, expert exchanges and training programmes.

High-level visits have further strengthened the partnership. The Chief of Defence Force of the Royal Thai Armed Forces visited India in January 2025, underlining sustained military engagement.

Strategic Convergence In The Indo-Pacific

Thailand’s ‘Act West’ policy complements India’s ‘Act East’ policy, creating strategic convergence in the Indo-Pacific region. As maritime neighbours, both countries share interests in regional security, stability and freedom of navigation.

Bilateral relations extend beyond defence to trade, connectivity, tourism, education and science and technology. A sizeable Indian-origin community of approximately 4 to 5 lakh people resides in Thailand, contributing to strong people-to-people ties.

Important Facts for Exams

• Su-30MKI is a multirole fighter aircraft operated by the Indian Air Force.
• AWACS provides airborne surveillance and battle management capabilities.
• India’s Act East Policy focuses on strengthening ties with Southeast Asia.
• Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on India-Thailand defence cooperation was signed in 2012.

Regional Security And Military Diplomacy

The exercise reinforces India’s commitment to strengthening defence partnerships in Southeast Asia. Enhanced interoperability with the Royal Thai Air Force contributes to greater regional synergy and reflects the growing strategic alignment between the two nations.