Gwalior (Madhya Pradesh) [India], March 25 (ANI): The UK Chief of the Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal Sir Harvey Smyth, visited Air Force Station Gwalior to gain first‑hand insight into Indian Air Force fighter base operations and to strengthen defence cooperation between the two countries. During his visit on Tuesday, he interacted with IAF personnel and observed operational aspects of the strategic fighter base. He was received by Air Marshal B Manikantan, Air Officer Commanding‑in‑Chief, Central Air Command.
The Indian Air Force posted on X that the visit “reinforced mutual understanding and explored avenues for enhanced convergence and interoperability between the two Air Forces,” underscoring the growing defence partnership between India and the United Kingdom.
Earlier on Tuesday, Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan held a high‑level meeting with Sir Harvey Smyth, reaffirming the strengthening India‑UK defence partnership. The discussions highlighted the continued exchange of instructors as a key pillar of bilateral cooperation and noted significant progress in defence intelligence collaboration. The CDS also welcomed the successful conduct of the 17th Military Sub Group Meeting and expressed confidence in advancing deeper, more integrated, and future‑ready defence engagement.
Sir Harvey Smyth began his three‑day visit to India on Monday, paying homage at the National War Memorial and reviewing a Guard of Honour presented by the IAF. He also held talks with Indian Air Chief Marshal AP Singh on evolving security threats and ways to deepen cooperation through expanded training, operational exchanges, and educational partnerships. (ANI)
