
The Indian Air Force (IAF) contingent successfully concluded its participation in Exercise Udara Shakti 2024 and returned to India on August 10, 2024.
- This joint air exercise, conducted with the Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF), took place from August 5 to 9, 2024, in Kuantan, Malaysia.
- The IAF participated with its Su-30MKI fighter jets.
Details of Exercise Udara Shakti 2024:
- Purpose: The exercise aimed to enhance operational efficiency, interoperability, and effectiveness between the IAF and RMAF. It focused on familiarizing crews with each other’s operational protocols and exchanging maintenance practices.
- Participants: The IAF’s Su-30MKI jets conducted air combat missions alongside the RMAF’s Su-30MKM fighters.
- Objectives: To improve commonality in aircraft operations and technical maintenance practices between the two air forces.
About Su-30MKI:
- Description: The Sukhoi Su-30MKI is a multirole combat fighter aircraft.
- Development: It is jointly developed by the Sukhoi Design Bureau and Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) for the Indian Air Force.
- Features: Based on the Su-30 fighter aircraft, the Su-30MKI is equipped with thrust vectoring control and canards, enhancing its maneuverability and combat capabilities.
Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL):
- Overview: HAL is a leading Indian public sector aerospace and defense company headquartered in Bangalore.
- History: Established in 1940, HAL is one of the oldest and largest aerospace and defense manufacturers in the world.
- Operations: HAL operates 11 Research and Development (R&D) centers and 21 manufacturing divisions across four production units in India.
Conclusion:
The successful participation of the Indian Air Force in Exercise Udara Shakti 2024 underscores the growing collaboration between India and Malaysia in defense and aerospace sectors. The exercise has strengthened interoperability and operational proficiency between the two nations’ air forces, while also showcasing the advanced capabilities of the Su-30MKI fighter jets. This joint endeavor highlights the strategic importance of international military cooperation and the ongoing advancements in defense technology and maintenance practices.
