Israeli fighter jets touch down in Greece for major international aerial drills

Emanuel (Mannie) Fabian is The Times of Israel's military correspondent

An Israeli Air Force F-16 fighter takes off during the Blue Flag multinational aerial exercise at the Ovda air force base, north of the Israeli city of Eilat, on October 24, 2021. (JACK GUEZ / AFP)
An Israeli Air Force F-16 fighter takes off during the Blue Flag multinational aerial exercise at the Ovda air force base, north of the Israeli city of Eilat, on October 24, 2021. (JACK GUEZ / AFP)

Israeli Air Force jets have landed in Greece to participate in a major international aerial exercise, simulating operations against air defense systems and large airstrikes, the military says.

Eight other countries are joining Greece in its Iniochos exercise this year: the United States, Canada, France, Italy, Cyprus, Slovenia, Austria and Israel. The exercise is scheduled to last through April 8.

The Israel Defense Forces says its delegation includes F-16 fighter jets and Gulfstream G550 surveillance planes.

“The exercise is part of strengthening aerial cooperation through mutual learning and training, as well as strengthening cooperation between the participating countries,” the IDF says in a statement.

Egypt, Albania, Austria, North Macedonia, the United Kingdom, India, Kuwait, Croatia, Morocco, and Saudi Arabia are sending observers to the drill, according to the Hellenic Air Force.

Most Popular
If you’d like to comment, join
The Times of Israel Community.
Join The Times of Israel Community
Commenting is available for paying members of The Times of Israel Community only. Please join our Community to comment and enjoy other Community benefits.
Please use the following structure: example@domain.com
Confirm Mail
Thank you! Now check your email
You are now a member of The Times of Israel Community! We sent you an email with a login link to . Once you're set up, you can start enjoying Community benefits and commenting.