The Indian Air Force has withdrawn from a multilateral air exercise in the United Kingdom.

Though the IAF did not specify the reasons for the withdrawal, it is understood that the decision was spurred by the escalating crisis in Ukraine as a result of Russia's military attack.

 
IAF
The exercise, dubbed "Cobra Warrior 22," is intended to provide operational experience and share best practises among the participating air forces, according to the IAF.

In light of the scenario emanating from the Ukraine crisis, the Indian Air Force has decided not to send its combat jets to a multinational air exercise in the United Kingdom next month.

The IAF's decision not to send aircraft to the 'Cobra Warrior' exercise occurred just three days after it confirmed its participation in the drills, which would take place at Waddington in the United Kingdom from March 6 to 27.

The IAF tweeted, "In view of recent developments, the #IAF has decided not to deploy its aircraft for Exercise Cobra Warrior 2022 in the UK."

Though the IAF did not specify the reasons for the withdrawal, it is understood that the decision was spurred by the escalating crisis in Ukraine as a result of Russia's military attack.

The IAF made the statement just hours after India voted negative on a UN Security Council resolution condemning Russia's military aggression against Ukraine.

According to official sources, India retains the option of reaching out to all relevant parties to establish a middle ground and develop conversation and diplomacy to settle the problem by abstaining from the resolution.

The Indian Air Force announced on Wednesday that a fleet of five Tejas light combat aircraft will take part in the 'Cobra Warrior' exercise (LCA).

The exercise, dubbed "Cobra Warrior 22," is intended to provide operational experience and share best practices among the participating air forces, according to the IAF.

The exercise would serve as a platform for the Tejas aircraft, which were built in-house, to demonstrate their maneuverability and operational capability, according to the statement.

"The exercise aims to provide operational exposure and share best practices among the participating air forces, increasing combat capability and developing friendship bonds," the IAF stated.