What is Orion Wargame?

April 12, 2023

France is hosting the multinational wargame codenamed Orion, which is expected to be held from the third week of April to May 5. This exercise will involve various countries, including India, and will test their combat capabilities in a simulated war scenario.

Background of the Wargame

The backdrop of this wargame is the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict, where NATO led by the US is opposing Russian moves against Ukraine. The aim of the exercise is to test the preparedness of the participating countries’ air forces and their ability to operate in a multi-national environment.

Indian Participation in Orion

The Indian Air Force (IAF) will participate in Orion with its Rafale fighter jets from the Western Air Command’s Golden Arrows squadron. The IAF has already inducted 36 Rafales, and these fighter planes have participated in wargames with foreign countries earlier, including Desert Knight with the French Air Force in Jodhpur.

Other Participating Countries

Apart from India, several other countries are taking part in the wargames with their fighter planes. These include France, NATO, and other allies. The exercise is significant for the French defence forces as it is reportedly the largest ever multinational exercise they have carried out. This wargame involves not only their Air Force but also their Army and Navy along with their allies, the US and the UK.

Number of Participants

Some 7,000 NATO troops have reportedly participated in the drill involving the land forces of their NATO allies. The exercise will take place in France and will involve a range of combat capabilities from air-to-air combat to ground attacks.

Exercise Copeindia

Another exercise involving India is Exercise Copeindia, which is going to take place in West Bengal. The American F-15 fighter planes are also expected to participate in this drill. However, there may be some changes in their availability of schedule due to the ongoing crisis in Ukraine.

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