India and US Air Forces Conclude Joint Exercise Tiger Claw

New stage in military partnership

India and US Air Forces Conclude Joint Exercise Tiger Claw: India and the United States just wrapped up a major joint military exercise called Tiger Claw 2025. This was the first-ever special forces collaboration between the Indian Air Force’s Garud Commandos and the United States Air Force Special Forces. From May 26 to June 10, elite units from both countries trained together in North India, particularly at Chandinagar in Uttar Pradesh.

This exercise is more than just a show of strength. It reflects a deepening bond between the two countries in the field of defence cooperation, especially in air-based special operations. With both nations sharing concerns over regional security, particularly in the Indo-Pacific, this move holds high strategic importance.

Objectives of Tiger Claw

The core aim of Tiger Claw was to strengthen interoperability between the two forces. Interoperability means they can operate together smoothly, even in high-stress combat situations. Both forces practiced tactics such as hostage rescue, airfield seizures, and behind-enemy-lines operations. These exercises help in creating joint combat readiness, where soldiers from different nations can act in sync.

Another key focus was the exchange of best practices. For instance, the Garuds, known for their expertise in securing Indian Air Force assets and handling counterterrorism operations, trained alongside the highly experienced USAF Special Forces. This kind of mutual learning benefits both countries by boosting their special ops efficiency.

Training venue and significance

The exercise was hosted at the Garud Regimental Training Centre, located at Air Force Station, Chandinagar, Baghpat in Uttar Pradesh. This is the primary training ground for the Garud commandos, a force that was raised in February 2004. Over the years, they’ve evolved into a highly skilled unit capable of operating in hostile territories and executing sabotage missions.

Conducting this exercise at Chandinagar also showcases India’s capability to host high-level joint military activities. The Garud Training Centre itself is now seen as a strategic hub for international defence collaborations.

Broader strategic implications

This exercise goes beyond just military drills. It signals growing strategic trust between the world’s two largest democracies. It also strengthens the Quad-level interoperability, involving India, the US, Japan, and Australia, all of whom share concerns about Indo-Pacific stability.

Such joint initiatives align with India’s growing role in regional and global defence platforms. Exercises like Tiger Claw help prepare for complex military missions and build a shared understanding of modern warfare challenges.

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