SINGAPORE - The Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF) and Indian Air Force (IAF) have conducted several mission-oriented exercises together over the past month as part of their Joint Military Training.

The training is being conducted at Kalaikunda Air Force Station, India from October 14 to Nov 20.

Minister of State for Defence Maliki Osman visited the air base Tuesday afternoon and interacted with RSAF personnel training there.

This year, the RSAF deployed its F-16D+ fighters to train with the IAF's MiG-21 and MiG-29 aircraft under a bilateral agreement between both air forces. The agreement, signed in 2007 and renewed two years ago, provides for military exercises being conducted in India.

Over the years, the training has grown in complexity, and now involves advanced air assets and various mission-oriented exercises.

"We value the opportunity to train alongside our counterparts from India regularly in this training," noted RSAF Detachment Commander, Lieutenant Colonel Stanley Selva.

"It allows us to be exposed to a range of aircraft platforms, and enables us to strengthen the close and long-standing relationship between (both air forces)."