Singapore and India Military Training: The Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF) and the Indian Air Force (IAF) recently concluded the 12th edition of the Joint Military Training (JMT) at Kalaikunda Air Force Station, India, which took place from 21 October to 6 December 2024. This annual exercise, established in 2008, aims to enhance operational readiness and strengthen defence ties between the two air forces through high-end joint training exercises. Over the years, JMT has evolved into a critical platform for collaboration, fostering mutual understanding and professional growth.
This year’s JMT was particularly significant, featuring the inaugural participation of the RSAF’s F-15SG fighter aircraft, marking a milestone in the bilateral defence partnership. The RSAF deployed a robust contingent, including eight F-15SGs, eight F-16s, a G550 Airborne Early Warning aircraft, and over 300 personnel, reflecting the importance Singapore places on this engagement.
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The RSAF personnel trained alongside the IAF’s advanced Rafale and Su-30 MKI fighter jets, engaging in complex air combat scenarios designed to test and improve interoperability, tactics, and operational effectiveness.
According to MINDEF, A key highlight of the exercise was the bilateral phase held from 13 to 22 November 2024, focusing on enhancing defence cooperation. The air forces conducted coordinated missions, including air-to-air combat, advanced maneuvers, and joint operational planning. This phase underscored the shared commitment of both nations to maintaining regional security and developing collaborative defence capabilities.
Colonel Jonavan Ang, RSAF’s Exercise Air Director, emphasized the value of the training and camaraderie built during the exercise, stating, “The RSAF values the opportunity to train alongside our counterparts from India and the friendships built among the participants, which underscore the strong and long-standing defence relations between Singapore and India.”
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The JMT is conducted under the Air Force Bilateral Agreement, first signed in 2007 and renewed in 2023, which provides a framework for regular interaction and professional exchanges between the RSAF and IAF. Beyond the JMT, both air forces maintain close ties through reciprocal visits, cross-attendance of training courses, and other collaborative activities. At the recent 6th India-Singapore Defence Ministers’ Dialogue held in New Delhi on 22 October 2024, Minister for Defence Dr. Ng Eng Hen and India’s Defence Minister Rajnath Singh reaffirmed the enduring strength of the bilateral defence relationship.
