Jerusalem, 3 April, 2022 (TPS) — The Israeli Air Force (IAF) completed its participation in the international exercise “Iniochos 2022” hosted by the Hellenic Air Forces in Greece, the 8th year Israek has participated in the drill.
The multinational aerial combat exercise took place last week at the Andravida Air Base.
The Israeli delegation was led by the “Negev” F-16I fighter 253 Squadron and with the participation of the 201 F-16 Squadron from the Ramon base and the “Nachshon” 122 Squadron with the G-550 Airborne Early Warning (AEW) from the Nevatim base.
The exercise was conducted jointly with the air forces of Greece, the US, France, Italy, Canada, Cyprus, and Slovenia and “is an important milestone in strengthening strategic-international cooperation between Israel and the various countries,” the IDF stated Sunday.
Albania, Egypt, Austria, North Macedonia, United Kingdom, India, Canada, Croatia, Kuwait, Morocco, and Saudi Arabia were present as observers.
During the exercise, the Israeli teams trained “wing to wing” with the other teams, while learning, and sharing practices.
In addition, dozens of aircraft simulated air-to-air combat scenarios, dealing with an advanced surface-to-air missile threat, combat in enemy territory, flying in unfamiliar areas, and practicing joint flights consisting of heterogeneous air force teams.
“The Air Force’s international collaborations, including training with foreign countries, are part of the cornerstones of the corps’ training program,” said Head of IAF Air Division Brigadier General Amir Lazar.
“This is the eighth year in which we are taking part in the Iniochos exercise – quality training in which we train, share knowledge and improve,” he said.
The IDF and the Greek military have held multiple joint exercises in the air, sea, and ground.