(credit-Indian Airforce)



Exercise BRIGHT STAR-23, a biennial multilateral tri-service military exercise, has taken place at Cairo (West) Air Base, Egypt, from August 27 to September 16, 2023. This year's edition marked a significant milestone as the Indian contingent, consisting of 549 personnel, embarked on their maiden participation, making it one of India's largest deployments for an overseas exercise.

 

The Indian Air Force (IAF) made its debut in EX-BRIGHT STAR-23, showcasing its prowess with an impressive array of aircraft: Five MIG-29s, Two IL-78s, Two C-130s, and Two C-17s. Adding to the diversity, personnel from the IAF's elite Garud special forces unit joined forces with squadrons 28, 77, 78, and 81 to participate in this high-profile event. Further strengthening the collaboration, approximately 150 personnel from the Indian Army were airlifted by IAF's transport aircraft.


Exercise BRIGHT STAR-23 brought together contingents from around the world, including the United States of America, Saudi Arabia, Greece, and Qatar, among others, and led by US CENTCOM and the Egyptian Army. Previously, Exercise BRIGHT STAR was conducted in 2021 wherein forces of 21 nations participated, according to the Ministry of Defence's earlier press release. This year's event saw a remarkable expansion, with 34 countries participating, making it the largest-ever joint military exercise in the Middle East and North Africa region.

 

Exercise BRIGHT STAR-23 has come a long way since its inception in 1980 as a bilateral biennial training exercise between the United States and Egypt, following the Camp David Accord of 1977. The exercise's evolution began in 1995 when other nations were invited to participate, gradually transforming it into the multinational tri-services joint military exercise it is today.

 

(The Indian Air Force, while sharing enthralling visuals from the ongoing BRIGHT STAR-23 in Egypt, posted a picture of an IAF IL-78 AAR aircraft refueling an aircraft from the Egyptian Air Force.)

 

The Indian Air Force's involvement in international exercises extends beyond a mere display of military capabilities. As the Defence Ministry stated, "IAF contingents participating in exercises abroad are no less than Diplomats in Flight Suits." This participation underscores India's commitment to strengthening strategic partnerships and enhancing joint operational capabilities with nations across the globe.

 

Participation in multinational exercises such as BRIGHT STAR-23 serves as a diplomatic tool, fostering cooperation and understanding between nations. The Ministry of Defence emphasized the exercise's objective: "to practice planning and execution of joint operations." These interactions not only form bonds across borders but also lay the groundwork for enhanced strategic relations between participating nations.


Exercise BRIGHT STAR-23, with its historical significance and India's momentous debut, stands as a testament to the nation's dedication to strengthening international partnerships. This participation goes beyond military maneuvers; it is a commitment to fostering diplomatic relations and enhancing joint capabilities in an ever-evolving global landscape. As India continues to forge new alliances, it does so with the understanding that such exercises are crucial for maintaining peace and stability in the world.