KOLKATA: A bilateral air exercise between the Indian Air Force (IAF) and the United States Air Force (USAF) — Exercise Cope India 23 — is being held at Air Force stations in Panagarh (in West Bengal’s Paschim Bardhaman district), Kalaikunda (in West Bengal’s Paschim Medinipur district) and Agra in Uttar Pradesh from Monday.
The exercise aims to enhance mutual understanding between the two Air Forces and share their best practices.
The exercise will continue till April 21.
The first phase of the exercise commenced on Monday.
This phase of the exercise will focus on air mobility and will involve transport aircraft and special forces assets from both the air forces.
Both sides will field the C-130J and C-17 aircraft, with the USAF operating an MC-130J as well.
The exercise also includes the presence of Japanese Air Self Defence Force aircrew, who will participate in the capacity of observers.
