Overall, the new training initiative highlights the expanding defence relationship between India and the UK and their shared commitment to developing highly skilled aircrews and stronger military cooperation
India and the United Kingdom have agreed to deepen their military training partnership, with Indian Air Force (IAF) instructors set to train Royal Air Force (RAF) pilots in the UK for the first time, reported gov.uk.
The decision follows the 19th UK–India Air Staff Talks held in New Delhi, where both sides discussed expanding defence cooperation.
Under the new arrangement, three Indian Qualified Flying Instructors (QFIs) will be deployed to RAF Valley, the main training base for British fast jet pilots. They will train RAF trainees on aircraft such as the BAE Hawk T2 and Texan T1. The deployment is expected to last for an initial period of two years, during which the instructors will remain under IAF command while working closely with RAF training units.
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This step builds on earlier milestones in military education cooperation
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In January this year, an Indian Air Force officer joined the RAF College Cranwell as an instructor, marking the first time an Indian officer taught at the RAF’s officer training academy
Indian officers are now present at all three UK military academies, including the Britannia Royal Naval College and the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst.
British defence officials described the move as a major step towards closer ties. Air Vice Marshal Ian Townsend said the agreement would strengthen training standards, improve joint operations, and support a long-term strategic partnership. Commodore Chris Saunders of the British High Commission added that the deployment reflects growing trust and aligns with the UK–India Vision 2035 framework.
The partnership has grown steadily in recent years, with joint naval, army and air exercises, including large maritime drills and the Cobra Warrior and Tarang Shakti air exercises. The two countries also signed a military training cooperation agreement during UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s visit to Mumbai in 2025.
