India Defence News, New Delhi: The Indian Air Force (IAF) is set to participate in Exercise INIOCHOS-25, a prestigious multinational air exercise hosted by the Hellenic Air Force at Andravida Air Base, Greece. Scheduled from March 31 to April 11, 2025, this biennial event will see the IAF deploy its formidable Su-30 MKI fighters, alongside combat enabler aircraft such as the IL-78 mid-air refuellers and C-17 Globemaster transport planes, showcasing India’s growing prowess in global military collaboration.
Multinational Air Exercise INIOCHOS-25
| Event Details | Description |
|---|---|
| Event Name | Military Exercise: INIOCHOS-25 |
| Hosted By | The Hellenic Air Force, Greece |
| Type | Multi-Nation |
| Date | March 31, 2025 – April 11, 2025 |
| Place | Andravida Air Base, Greece |
| Participants | Indian Air Force (IAF) and air forces from 15 countries, hosted by Hellenic Air Force |
| Purpose | "Enhancing cooperation, refining tactics, and mastering modern air warfare" |
| Deployed Assets /Combat Platforms | "Su-30 MKI multi-role jets supported by IL-78 tankers and C-17 heavy-lift aircraft" |
Exercise INIOCHOS, a hallmark of international air force cooperation, brings together fifteen nations to test and refine their aerial capabilities under realistic combat scenarios. Conducted every two years by Greece,
- the exercise integrates a wide array of air and surface assets, simulating the complexities of modern air warfare
- it serves as a critical platform for participating forces to enhance tactical expertise, share operational knowledge, and foster stronger military relationships.
The IAF contingent’s participation in INIOCHOS-25 underscores India’s commitment to boosting interoperability and synergy with allied air forces. According to an official statement, “The IAF looks forward to leveraging this opportunity to train in planning and executing Combined Air Operations, refine tactics in complex air warfare scenarios, and gain insights into operational best practices.” With all operations centralized at Andravida Air Base, the exercise promises to sharpen the IAF’s skills while contributing to mutual learning among the diverse participants.
This year’s exercise will feature advanced simulations of contemporary air combat challenges, allowing the IAF to test its Su-30 MKI jets—known for their agility and multi-role capabilities—in high-intensity scenarios.
The inclusion of IL-78 refuellers and C-17 transports highlights India’s ability to sustain long-range operations, a key asset in multinational engagements.
The IAF’s involvement is expected to not only elevate its operational readiness but also strengthen coordination with nations like Greece and other participants, which may include traditional partners such as the United States, France, and Israel, alongside newer collaborators.
The IAF’s participation in INIOCHOS-25 aligns with India’s broader vision of fostering global defence cooperation and achieving operational excellence. This marks another step in the force’s growing international presence, following successful engagements in exercises like Red Flag (USA), Pitch Black (Australia), and Tarang Shakti (India’s own multinational drill in 2024). By joining INIOCHOS, the IAF aims to deepen strategic partnerships and enhance its joint operational capabilities with friendly nations.
This deployment comes at a time when India is intensifying its focus on self-reliance and global outreach in defence. The Su-30 MKI, a mainstay of the IAF’s fleet, is produced under license by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), reflecting the success of the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative. Participation in INIOCHOS-25 will also provide valuable exposure to cutting-edge tactics and technologies, further bolstering India’s air power in an evolving geopolitical landscape.
As the countdown to March 31 begins, the IAF contingent is preparing for a rigorous 12-day exercise that promises to push the boundaries of skill and collaboration. Exercise INIOCHOS-25 is poised to reinforce India’s stature as a key player in global defence, cementing ties with Greece and other nations while showcasing the IAF’s operational might on an international stage.
Summary
The Indian Air Force (IAF) is set to participate in Exercise INIOCHOS-25, a prestigious multinational air exercise hosted by the Hellenic Air Force at Andravida Air Base, Greece. Scheduled from March 31 to April 11, 2025, this biennial event will see the IAF deploy its combat platforms, including Su-30 MKI multi-role jets supported by IL-78 tankers and C-17 heavy-lift aircraft, showcasing India’s growing prowess in global military collaboration."
SOURCE : GoI