Continuing the intensifyying defence cooperation with France, Indian Air Force chief, Air Chief Marshal RKS Bhadauria left for France on Monday on an official visit.

His visit from April 19-23 will enhance potential avenues for strengthening the level of interaction between the two Air Forces, a Press Information Bureau release said.

The air chief will hold meetings and discussions with senior military leadership of France and visit operational facilities and airbases.

The visit comes after Gen Philippe Lavigne, Chief of Staff, French Air and Space Force visited India in February, 2020.

The two air forces have seen significant operational interaction in the recent past. They engage in the bilateral air exercise series ‘Garuda’, as well as hop exercises, the last being Ex Desert Knight 21 held at Air Force Station Jodhpur in January.

IAF and FASF also participated in Ex Desert Flag hosted by UAE Air Force along with other friendly countries in March 2021.

(SAM)