Exercise Desert Night

• The air forces of India, UAE and France conducted air combat exercise Desert Night over the Arabian Sea on 23 January 2024.

• The Indian Air Force (IAF) operated from its bases on the west coast. The other two air forces operated from AI Dhafra Air Base.

• The French Air and Space Force deployed Rafale fighter planes. It also deployed a multi-role tanker transport aircraft for the exercise.

• UAE deployed F-16 jets. The IAF contingent included Sukhoi-30MKI, MiG-29 and Jaguar fighter aircraft along with AWACS (Airborne Warning and Control System).

• The IAF contingent also included C-130-J Super Hercules and IL-78 mid-air refueling aircraft.

• Exercise Desert Night focuses on enhancing synergy and interoperability between the three air forces.