Advertisement The Indian Air Force is, for the first time, participating in an annual multinational air exercise hosted by the United Arab Emirates. In a statement about the sixth edition of Exercise Desert Flag, which began on March 3 and will continue until March 21, the India Ministry of Defense noted that the “IAF is participating with six Su-30 MKI, two C-17 and one IL-78 tanker aircraft. C-17 Globemaster will provide support for induction/ de-induction of the IAF contingent. Su-30 MKI aircraft will undertake long range ferry, routing direct from India to the exercise area with aerial refueling support from IL-78 tanker aircraft.”