Overview
- On October 14, Indian Air Force Sukhoi‑30 MKIs and Jaguars trained with Royal Navy F‑35Bs from HMS Prince of Wales over the northern Indian Ocean.
- Six F‑35Bs launched to protect the carrier as eight Su‑30s and four Jaguars executed simulated strike runs supported by AWACS and AEW&C assets, according to official and naval reports.
- The aerial exercise followed the sea phase of KONKAN 25 completed on October 8, which featured paired carrier operations by INS Vikrant and HMS Prince of Wales.
- The UK Carrier Strike Group’s India stop included port visits to Mumbai and Goa and was conducted during its eight‑month Operation Highmast deployment.
- Officials said the drills strengthened interoperability and mutual trust, and UK statements highlighted ongoing defence cooperation, including a £350 million Lightweight Multirole Missiles deal and new training ties.