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World Aviation Defence and Security News - Russia & India
 
 
Russia and India started joint air exercise "Avia Indra-2014"
 
India and Russia started on Monday, August 25, their first joint air exercise in Russia to boost cooperation between their air forces, said the Indian Air Force ( IAF). "Ex Avia Indra-2014 commenced today at Astrakhan region, near the Caspian Sea in Russia. The exercises will continue for 10 days and would be concluded on Sept. 5," an IAF release said.
     

IAF's Su-30 MkI
     

It is "seen as a major mile stone in military relations. This involves participation of fighter pilots, helicopter pilots, missile combat crew, as well as engineers from the IAF," it said.

The two countries have already had INDRA-series war games between their armies and navies.

Fighter and helicopter pilots of IAF will participate in missions alongside Russian pilots in aircraft of the Russian Air Force Su-30SM fighter aircraft, Mi-17 and Mi-35 helicopters.

The two air forces will also hold discussions on air defense and their missile combat crew will interact with each other and participate in air defense exercises, said the IAF.

"It will also provide an opportunity to both the forces for exchange of best practices and will cement the foundation for a more professional interaction and growth in the future," the IAF said.