Muscat: The Indian Air Force (IAF) and the Royal Air Force of Oman (RAFO) are currently conducting a joint aerial exercise to strengthen bilateral and strategic partnership between the two countries.
The `Eastern Bridge` exercise is going on at the RAFO air base on Masirah island in Oman.
According to a Times Of Oman report, close to 150 personnel and six Jaguar aircraft from the Indian Air Force`s No 6 Squadron, supported by an IL-76 transport aircraft and an IL-78 airborne refueller are participating.
RAFO Jaguar, Hawk and F-16 aircraft are representing the Omani side.
"India and Oman have a strong cultural and historical relationship," Indian Air Vice Marshal C Hari Kumar was quoted as saying.
"This is the third in the series of exercises we are having after `Thumrait` and `Jamnagar`," he said.
Kumar said Oman is the only country in the Gulf Cooperation Council with which India has a bilateral exercise.
"Oman and India are the only two countries in the world to operate the Jaguar," he said.
The aerial exercise will continue till October 12.
IANS
