The Indian Air Force (IAF) joined hands with the Royal Thai Air Force (RTAF) for a powerful air combat exercise from February 9 to 12, 2026. This event took place over the Indian Ocean Region (IOR) to boost military cooperation between the two nations. The drill featured IAF’s Su-30MKI multirole fighter jets and Thailand’s SAAB Gripen fighters. The IAF’s IL-78 mid-air refuelling tankers played a key role, allowing extended operations across the skies and seas, highlighting India’s long-distance deployment skills. Advanced surveillance came from the IAF's AWACS planes, while the RTAF managed ground control interception to coordinate the mission smoothly. Indian aircraft operated from airbases in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, showing India’s strategic reach into the IOR. At the same time, Thai jets flew from bases in Thailand. This exercise was not just about flying together; it was about learning and sharing best practices in air combat and maritime operations. Defence experts say this drill deepens ties between India and Thailand and pushes India’s “Act East” policy further into defence and aerospace collaboration.