IAF concludes in-situ air combat exercise with the Royal Thai Air Force in the Indian Ocean Region
The Indian Air Force concluded an in-situ air combat training exercise with the Royal Thai Air Force in the Indian Ocean Region on 12 February 2026, after four days of flying that began on 9 February.
Summary
The Indian Air Force concluded an in-situ air combat training exercise with the Royal Thai Air Force (RTAF) in the Indian Ocean Region on 12 February 2026; it ran from 9 to 12 February. IAF Su-30MKI fighters flew against RTAF Saab Gripen jets, with IAF IL-78 tankers refuelling the Indian aircraft for extended-range operations over the sea. IAF AWACS aircraft and an RTAF Ground Control Interception element provided surveillance and control. The IAF operated from airbases in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands while the Gripens flew from Thailand. The IAF said the exercise showed its reach and reflected the deepening Act East partnership. Separately, India and Thailand hold Siam Bharat, a humanitarian assistance and disaster relief exercise.
Key facts
- Dates
- 9–12 February 2026
- Area
- Indian Ocean Region
- Aircraft
- IAF Su-30MKI vs RTAF Saab Gripen
- Support
- IAF IL-78 tankers and AWACS; RTAF GCI
- Bases
- IAF from Andaman and Nicobar Islands; RTAF from Thailand
- Other exercise
- Siam Bharat (HADR) with Thailand
Practice MCQs 3 questions
Which fighter aircraft did the Royal Thai Air Force field in its in-situ exercise with the IAF in February 2026?
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Correct answer: D — Saab Gripen
The RTAF flew Saab Gripen jets from bases in Thailand; the IAF flew Su-30MKI fighters.
From where did the IAF's participating forces operate during the February 2026 in-situ exercise with the Royal Thai Air Force?
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Correct answer: A — Andaman and Nicobar Islands
The IAF operated from airbases in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, supported by IL-78 tankers and AWACS.
Consider the following statements about India–Thailand air force engagement: 1. In the February 2026 in-situ exercise, IAF IL-78 tankers enabled extended-range operations over the maritime domain. 2. 'Siam Bharat' is an India–Thailand exercise focused on humanitarian assistance and disaster relief. Which of the above is/are correct?
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Correct answer: C — Both 1 and 2
Both are correct. IL-78 tankers supported the IAF's extended-range flying, and Siam Bharat is listed among India's bilateral HADR exercises with Thailand.