First Special Forces Exercise between Indian Air Force & US Air Force
The Indian Air Force (IAF) and the United States Air Force (USAF) have successfully completed “Exercise Tiger Claw 2025,” a pioneering joint military exercise held at the Garud Regimental Training Center in North India from 26 May to 10 Jun 25. This marks the first ever independent Special Forces exercise, between IAF and USAF,, highlighting a significant milestone in their strategic partnership.
The exercise, which spanned several weeks, focused on enhancing interoperability between the IAF’s elite Garud Commandos and the USAF’s Special Operations Forces. Activities included airborne operations, tactical maneuvers, and joint planning sessions, aimed at improving coordination and response capabilities in complex operational environments. The culmination of the exercise saw both forces demonstrating advanced skills in counter-terrorism, reconnaissance, and rapid deployment scenarios.
However, the timing of “Exercise Tiger Claw 2025” has not been without controversy. On the same day, U.S. Central Command Chief Gen. Michael Kurilla described Pakistan as a “phenomenal partner” in counter-terrorism efforts during a congressional hearing. This statement has raised eyebrows in India, given the historical tensions and ongoing security concerns related to Pakistan’s role in the region. The juxtaposition of military cooperation with India and diplomatic praise for Pakistan underscores the delicate balance the U.S. maintains in South Asia.
