India-Oman joint aerial exercise on

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 Oct 12.