The Indian Air Force (IAF) and the Royal Navy carried out a major joint aerial exercise over the Indian Ocean Region on Tuesday, showcasing the growing coordination between the two forces. The exercise involved advanced aircraft and systems from both sides, focusing on interoperability and regional stability.

The event featured frontline IAF platforms, including Sukhoi-30 MKI and Jaguar fighter jets, along with Airborne Warning and Control System (AWACS) and Airborne Early Warning and Control (AEW&C) aircraft. On the British side, the Royal Navy deployed its powerful F-35B fighter jets operating from the aircraft carrier HMS Prince of Wales. The joint mission reflected the strengthening of defence ties between India and the United Kingdom in the Indo-Pacific region.

According to a post shared on “X” by the Indian Air Force, “On 14 Oct 25, IAF Sukhoi-30 MKIs, Jaguars, AWACS & AEW&C aircraft joined Royal Navy F-35Bs from HMS Prince of Wales for a joint exercise over the Indian Ocean Region. The training strengthened interoperability, mutual trust, and collective commitment to regional stability.”

Strengthening Strategic Maritime Cooperation

The exercise marks a proactive step in military cooperation between the two nations, particularly in maritime security. The Indian Ocean has witnessed increasing strategic importance, and both India and the UK are enhancing coordination to keep sea routes safe and open. Officials highlighted that such drills not only help share tactical knowledge but also boost crew familiarity with each other’s operational systems and procedures.

In recent years, the Indian Air Force has expanded its cooperation with friendly countries to include high-intensity war games, maritime patrols, and integrated command exercises. For the Royal Navy, which is increasing its presence in the Indo-Pacific, training with the IAF offers valuable insight into the operational environment and enhances its reach in the region.

The involvement of F-35B Lightning II jets—fifth-generation stealth fighters—was seen as a major feature of this exercise. Experts noted that joint training of such advanced aircraft with India’s Sukhoi-30 MKIs provides a learning opportunity in integrating fourth- and fifth-generation combat platforms. The activity also strengthens the broader India-UK defence partnership under their joint “Comprehensive Strategic Partnership” framework.

Expanding India’s Airpower with Astra Mark 2

In a related development, Indian defence officials have confirmed that the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) is preparing to extend the range of its Astra Mark 2 air-to-air missile to over 200 kilometres. This would be a major upgrade from the existing design target of around 160 kilometres. According to officials, the proposal to expand the missile’s range will soon be discussed by the Defence Ministry.

The IAF is expected to acquire nearly 700 Astra Mark 2 missiles once the final version is approved, which will be integrated with its Sukhoi-30 MKI and Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) fleets. The Astra Mark 2 programme represents a vital step towards enhancing India’s Beyond Visual Range (BVR) combat capabilities, allowing the force to engage hostile targets at significantly longer distances with high precision.

The improved missile is being developed to compete with global BVR missile systems, offering improved propulsion and guidance technologies. Officials stated that this advancement will help pilots achieve superior combat effectiveness and greater mission flexibility, especially during cross-service exercises like the one recently conducted with the Royal Navy.

Indigenous Drive in Missile Development

India’s indigenous missile development programme continues to gain strength, with DRDO playing a central role in designing advanced weapon systems that can match global standards. The earlier version, Astra Mark 1, already has an operational range exceeding 100 kilometres and is equipped with sophisticated navigation and guidance systems designed for high agility and precision.

The DRDO’s Astra project involves close collaboration with several Indian industries. More than 50 public and private sector companies, including Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), have contributed to the successful realisation of the Astra weapon system. The government’s focus on developing indigenous defence platforms aims to reduce dependence on imports and promote the “Aatmanirbhar Bharat” vision in the defence sector.

Defence analysts say the combination of indigenous air-to-air weapons and enhanced interoperability with international forces gives the Indian Air Force a distinct advantage. It not only strengthens India’s deterrence capability but also ensures readiness for modern warfare challenges across domains. With exercises like the one over the Indian Ocean and the extension of projects such as Astra Mark 2, India is moving steadily towards a more self-reliant, technologically advanced airpower structure.

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