Germany holds 1st joint air force exercises in India

The German Air Force is conducting joint exercises in India for the first time, reported dpa.

The Tarang Shakti Phase 1 manoeuvres, in which the Spanish, French and British air forces are also participating, have begun, a Luftwaffe spokesman announced on Wednesday.

Ingo Gerhartz from the German Air Force said that India is an important partner for Germany and Europe. With 1.4 billion inhabitants, India is the most populous country in the world.

According to observers, the exercises could be linked to China's expansionist behaviour. Relations between India and the People's Republic are tense due to border disputes and economic issues.

Germany is also interested in a potential multi-billion-euro submarine deal with India.

The government in New Delhi is looking for a cooperation partner for the production of conventional submarines in India, including technology transfer. Spanish and German proposals are currently being examined.