Why China and Russia are wary of the “Indian Air Force & Air Self-Defense Force” training for fighting “virtual enemy aircraft

On January 10, the Indian Air Force arrived in Japan for the first time at the Hyakuri Air Base in Ibaraki, and has been conducting joint training exercises with the Air Self-Defense Force for 10 days since January 16. The training exercise is said to have a hidden “aim” of the JASDF.

The Sukhoi 30, the Indian Air Force’s main fighter jet, is participating in this training exercise. This aircraft is also the main Russian fighter developed by a long-established manufacturer from the days of the former Soviet Union,” said military journalist Fumitaro Kuroi.

The Sukhoi 30 is a tandem double-seat aircraft with seats in the front and rear, and is a multirole aircraft capable of both ground and air attacks. It is a multi-role aircraft capable of both ground and air attacks. It is capable of carrying large weapons such as bombs and missiles, yet can reach a super high speed of Mach 2.3.

Japan is aware of the Sukhoi 30’s performance. In addition, the actual training will provide us with valuable experience with this aircraft. Through this joint training, we will be able to get a sense of what it is like to battle with a Russian-made fighter, a ‘virtual enemy aircraft. That is what the JASDF is aiming for.

Russia is not the only country that is becoming increasingly alarmed by these drills. China is also closely watching the drills.

The Indian Air Force’s first visit to Japan was motivated by the desire to strengthen cooperation with Japan in preparation for a possible Chinese invasion. Naturally, China is wary of India’s moves. And what is more, in fact, China also has a derivative of the ‘Sukhoi 30’ fighter as its mainstay. In other words, this joint drill will allow the JASDF to learn about the performance and maneuverability of Russia’s and China’s ‘virtual enemy aircraft.

In addition to the four F-2 fighters from Hyakuri Air Base, four F-15 fighters of the Air Tactical Command, or “Aggressor Unit,” from Komatsu Air Base in Ishikawa Prefecture are also taking part in the joint drill.

The pilots of the “Aggressor Unit” are among the most elite in the JASDF. The pilots of the Aggressor Unit are among the most elite in the JASDF, and they provide guidance on patrol at bases all over Japan. The seriousness of the JASDF is evident in the fact that this unit is being deployed. There is a risk that the Indian side will learn about the capabilities of Japanese fighter aircraft, but they must have decided that the benefits outweigh that risk. There is no doubt that they are conducting very advanced training, just as if they were in actual combat.

The international situation is gradually becoming more and more tense. Even a single joint training exercise is swirling with a variety of speculations.

From the February 3, 2023 issue of FRIDAY