Indian air force trains with Mountain Home AFB Airmen Published July 29, 2008 By Airman 1st Class Samantha S. Crane 366th Fighter Wing Public Affairs Office MOUNTAIN HOME AIR FORCE BASE, Idaho -- The Indian air force arrived to Mountain Home Air Force Base July 17 to train with Airmen here before participating in Exercise Read Flag at Nellis AFB, Nev., which begins Aug. 9. This is the first time in history the IAF has been on American soil to train with U.S. fighters. During their stay, they will be taking advantage of Mountain Home's vast air space and multiple ranges to better prepare their aircrews for the upcoming exercise. "We are here to learn to understand the United States' procedures and terminology," said Indian air force Group Capt. Ajey Rathore. "This helps us accomplish the big procedures and operations we face when we deploy together." Along with 91 officers and 156 personnel, the IAF brought eight SU-30 MK-I aircraft, two IL-78 air-to-air refuellers and one IL-76 transport aircraft. The IAF is staying on Mountain Home AFB and Boise, Idaho, and interacts with both the base and local populations, and has enjoyed its time in the U.S. "It has been an excellent opportunity for us," said Capt. Rathore. "The base and local town has welcomed us with open arms and made it an enjoyable time for all of us. Everyone has been so helpful; we really have enjoyed our time with the Americans." Red Flag, a two-week, multi-national, advanced aerial combat training exercise, will run from Aug. 9 through 23. During Red Flag, participants act as both friendly and enemy forces, depending on the scenario. The opposing teams then face off in realistic combat situations to improve their ability to target and defeat hostile air, surface-to-air, space and information threats from enemies. Experiences include night flying, engaging hostile targets, flying tactical missions and live bomb drops. Other participants include the South Korean air force and French air force.