The countdown has begun at the Indian Air Force (IAF) base in the southern town of Sulur: Dozens of combat aircraft from different parts of the world are expected to touch down here as India prepares to host its first multinational air exercise starting Tuesday.

The drills, named Tarang Shakti, will see the participation of 10 countries — including Germany — with their air assets. A total of 18 other nations are slated to take part as observers.

The IAF had extended an invitation to 51 friendly countries to participate in these international exercises, which will take place in two phases.

The first phase of the drills will be conducted from August 6 to 14, with Germany, France, Spain and the United Kingdom war-gaming alongside India.

The second phase is scheduled to take place in Jodhpur, in northern Rajasthan state, toward the end of the month and will see the participation of Australia, Bangladesh, Singapore, Greece, the United Arab Emirates and the United States.

"This exercise aims to strengthen strategic relations with our friends from the international community," IAF's deputy chief Air Marshal AP Singh told reporters in New Delhi last week.

This also marks the first time the German Air Force will participate in military drills in India.

The drills come at a time when India and Germany are looking to shore up their defense relations. The........

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