Russian and Indian crews practise air combat in Chelyabinsk exercise

Russian and Indian crews carried out joint Su-30SM flights in Russia's Chelyabinsk region during the Indra-2026 exercise, the Russian Defence Ministry said.

Fighter crews practised engaging small, low-flying targets and aircraft carrying short- and medium-range weapons. The flights included manoeuvring air combat at medium and low altitudes.

Mi-8 helicopter crews practised deploying special forces and searching for and rescuing aircrews in difficult terrain.

The exercise began on October 14 in the Chelyabinsk region and Russia's Far East. It includes air, naval and ground components.