India and Singapore Air Forces Begin 12th Joint Military Training at Kalaikunda
The Air Forces of India and Singapore have started the 12th edition of their Joint Military Training (JMT) exercise at the Air Force Station Kalaikunda in West Bengal. This exercise began on Monday and will continue with its bilateral phase from November 13 to 21, 2024. The focus is on enhancing collaboration through advanced air combat simulations, joint mission planning, and debriefing sessions.
Participating Forces and Aircraft
The Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF) is participating with its largest contingent ever, including aircrew and support personnel from F-16 and F-15 squadrons, as well as G-550 Airborne Early Warning and Control (AEW&C) and C-130 aircraft. The Indian Air Force (IAF) will join with Rafale, Mirage 2000 ITI, Su-30 MKI, Tejas, MiG-29, and Jaguar aircraft.
Goals and Activities
The JMT aims to improve interoperability, sharpen combat readiness, and facilitate knowledge exchange between the two Air Forces. The exercise follows RSAF’s participation in Ex-Tarang Shakti, a large multinational aerial exercise hosted by the IAF, highlighting the growing professional relationship between the two forces.
Beyond air operations, personnel from both air forces will engage in sports and cultural activities over the next seven weeks, sharing best practices and fostering mutual respect.
Significance of JMT-2024
JMT-2024 underscores the strong bilateral defense relationship between India and Singapore, built over years of collaboration and joint exercises.
Doubts Revealed
Kalaikunda -: Kalaikunda is a place in West Bengal, India, where the Indian Air Force has an airbase. It is used for training and military exercises.
Joint Military Training -: Joint Military Training is when two or more countries’ military forces practice together. It helps them learn to work together and improve their skills.
Republic of Singapore Air Force -: The Republic of Singapore Air Force is the air force of Singapore. It is responsible for defending Singapore’s airspace.
F-16, F-15, G-550 AEW&C, C-130 -: These are types of aircraft used by the Singapore Air Force. F-16 and F-15 are fighter jets, G-550 AEW&C is an aircraft for surveillance, and C-130 is a transport aircraft.
Rafale, Mirage 2000 ITI, Su-30 MKI, Tejas, MiG-29, Jaguar -: These are types of aircraft used by the Indian Air Force. They include fighter jets like Rafale and Su-30 MKI, which are used for air combat.
Interoperability -: Interoperability means the ability of different military forces to work together effectively. It is important for joint operations and exercises.
Combat readiness -: Combat readiness is the state of being prepared to fight in a military conflict. It involves having trained personnel and equipment ready for action.
Bilateral defense relationship -: A bilateral defense relationship is a partnership between two countries to support each other in defense matters. It involves cooperation and joint activities like training exercises.
