IAF 'Red Flag Exercise-24' in Alaska between 30 May-14 June

The Indian Air Force (IAF) has demonstrated its commitment to enhancing its operational capabilities and strengthening global partnerships by participating in the multinational Red Flag 24-2 exercise hosted by the United States Air Force (USAF) at the Eielson Air Force Base in Alaska. This prestigious exercise, which commenced on May 30, 2024, and will continue until June 14, 2024, is a two-week advanced aerial combat training event designed to provide realistic and challenging scenarios for participating forces.

The Red Flag exercise series, initiated by the USAF after the Vietnam War in 1975, has become a renowned platform for military aviation units from around the world to sharpen their skills and foster interoperability. The Red Flag-Alaska exercises, initially known as Cope Thunder and based in the Clark Air Base Philippines, were later renamed and relocated to the Eielson Air Force Base in 2006. These exercises are conducted by the Pacific Air Forces (PACAF), the air component command of the United States Indo-Pacific Command (USINDOPACOM).

For the Red Flag 24-2 exercise, the IAF has deployed a contingent comprising eight Rafale fighter jets, Il-78 mid-air refueling aircraft, and C-17 Globemaster transport aircraft. This deployment showcases India's commitment to enhancing its combat capabilities and fostering international cooperation in addressing emerging security challenges.

Exercise Overview and Objectives

The Red Flag 24-2 exercise is a comprehensive and realistic training event that simulates a challenging combat environment. It brings together aircrew, equipment, and support personnel from different nations and services, allowing them to integrate and operate as a cohesive force.

According to the United States Air Force, approximately 3,100 service members are expected to participate in the exercise, flying, maintaining, and supporting more than 100 aircraft from four nations. The exercise leverages the vast airspace of the Joint Pacific Alaska Range Complex, spanning over 77,000 square miles, which is the largest combat training range in the world.

The primary objectives of the Red Flag 24-2 exercise are to enhance interoperability among participating forces, facilitate the exchange of tactics and procedures, and improve overall combat readiness. Through realistic combat scenarios and simulated threats, participants can identify areas for improvement and refine their strategies and tactics.

The exercise covers a wide range of activities, from individual skills training to complex, large-scale joint engagements, ensuring that participants are prepared for a variety of operational scenarios. This comprehensive approach not only tests the operational capabilities of participating units but also fosters a deeper understanding of joint and combined operations in a dynamic and challenging environment.

By participating in such multinational exercises, the Indian Air Force reinforces its commitment to strengthening global partnerships and fostering military cooperation with allied nations. These collaborative efforts contribute to the advancement of military capabilities and enhance regional and global security.

Indian Air Force's Participation and Benefits

The Indian Air Force's participation in the Red Flag 24-2 exercise presents a unique opportunity to train alongside some of the world's most advanced fighter aircraft and weapon systems. The Eielson Air Force Base hosts a unit comprising F-16 Fighting Falcons and two units of the USAF's cutting-edge F-35 stealth fighters, widely regarded as the best fighter aircraft in the world.

By training with these formidable aircraft, the IAF's Rafale pilots and personnel will gain invaluable experience in aerial combat scenarios, enabling them to refine their tactics, techniques, and procedures. This exposure will not only enhance their individual skills but also contribute to the overall combat readiness of the Indian Air Force.

Furthermore, the Red Flag 24-2 exercise will provide the IAF with a rare opportunity to train against the F-35 stealth fighters for the first time. This experience holds particular significance as India prepares to potentially confront China's J-20 fighter aircraft, which China claims to be in the same class as the F-35. During the Galwan border clash between Indian and Chinese forces in June 2020, China reportedly deployed its J-20 fighters to counter the IAF's deployment in the region.

As India does not currently possess any stealth aircraft in its inventory, the Red Flag 24-2 exercise will offer invaluable insights into countering and operating against stealth capabilities. This knowledge will be crucial in developing effective strategies and tactics should a future conflict with China's advanced fighter jets arise.

Moreover, the exercise will facilitate the exchange of knowledge and best practices among participating nations, fostering greater interoperability and enhancing operational effectiveness in joint combat scenarios.

Way Forward

The Indian Air Force's participation in the Red Flag 24-2 exercise at the Eielson Air Force Base in Alaska represents a significant milestone in its pursuit of operational excellence and international cooperation. This prestigious exercise provides a unique opportunity for the IAF to train alongside some of the world's most advanced fighter aircraft and weapon systems, including the formidable F-35 stealth fighters.

The valuable experience gained from training against these cutting-edge platforms will contribute to the IAF's preparedness in countering potential threats, such as China's J-20 stealth fighters. Additionally, the exercise fosters interoperability and facilitates the exchange of knowledge and best practices among participating nations, enhancing overall combat readiness and operational effectiveness.

Exercises like Red Flag 24-2 serve as a testament to the Indian Air Force's commitment to strengthening global partnerships and fostering military cooperation with allied nations. By participating in such multinational events, the IAF not only enhances its capabilities but also contributes to regional and global security through increased understanding and collaboration.

As the exercise progresses, the Indian Air Force's contingent is expected to gain invaluable insights and experiences, further bolstering their preparedness to address emerging security challenges and contribute to regional and global peace and stability.