In a significant move signaling deeper defence ties between India and Greece, Indian Air Force Chief, Air Chief Marshal VR Chaudhari Singh, is currently on an official visit to Athens. His visit aims to bolster operational cooperation and tactical training between the two nations’ air forces amidst shifting regional security dynamics. Notably, the visit comes as Greece expresses keen interest in learning from India’s recent Operation Sindoor, particularly its precision-strike tactics and integrated air operations.
During his visit, which took place earlier this week, Air Chief Marshal Singh engaged in high-level consultations with his Greek counterpart, focusing on enhancing interoperability, joint exercises, and sharing best practices. A ceremonial exchange, which was widely shared on social media, saw Singh being felicitated by a senior officer of the Hellenic Air Force.
The backdrop of this visit carries particular significance. Earlier this month, it was reported that the Hellenic Air Force expressed interest in India’s “Operation Sindoor” — a highly regarded, classified air force operation known for its successful execution in complex combat scenarios. Defence analyst Paul Antonopoulos tweeted that Greece was keen on gaining insights from India’s operational details and tactics, with the aim of incorporating them into their own training programs.
While no official confirmation has been made regarding the inclusion of Operation Sindoor in the discussions, analysts suggest that Greece is particularly interested in leveraging India’s combat experience, especially in high-altitude and hybrid warfare environments. This focus aligns with the growing tensions in the Eastern Mediterranean, particularly amid Greece’s long-standing rivalry with Turkey, making such operational expertise highly relevant. Greece views India’s Operation Sindoor—noted for its precision, coordination, and strategic messaging—as a potential model for enhancing its own preparedness in a complex regional security environment.
The India-Greece defence relationship has been gradually strengthening over the years, particularly following the signing of defence cooperation agreements and the increasing diplomatic exchanges between the two nations. This visit by Air Chief Marshal Singh is seen as an important step in turning the diplomatic goodwill into tangible military collaboration.
The Indian Air Force, renowned for its extensive experience in varied combat conditions — from mountainous terrain to deep-sea coordination with naval forces — is offering Greece a unique model for air force modernization and joint training exercises. During the visit, discussions also covered potential joint drills, pilot exchange programs, and avenues for cooperation in defence research and development, especially in aerospace technologies.
As geopolitical dynamics continue to evolve in both Europe and Asia, the growing defence cooperation between India and Greece could play a crucial role in fostering multi-regional military alliances.