Kamal Ghorui
IAF chief Air Chief Marshal Amar Preet Singh undertook a familiarisation flight in Boeing F-15EX Eagle II fighter aircraft during his visit to Nellis Air Force Base in Nevada on April 9. F-15E Strike Eagle is the combat fighter extensively used by the US for deep-strike operations during the conflict with Iran.Singh flew alongside US Air Force Major Matthew Benson, a pilot with 85th Test and Evaluation Squadron. The sortie gave the IAF chief a close look at one of the most advanced fighter platforms in US inventory, which plays a significant role in maintaining air superiority and supporting operations in the Indo-Pacific region.The F-15EX Eagle II is the latest iteration of the US’s premium air superiority fighter that is hailed as “one of the platforms essential to the collaborative defense of the Indo-Pacific”.The Nellis Air Force Base that IAF chief visited is a key centre for advanced combat training and operational testing for the US Air Force.During the visit, the IAF chief also held discussions with senior US Air Force officials. Air Commodore Yeshpal Singh Negi was also part of the IAF delegation.Talks focused on expanding joint exercise opportunities and aligning modernisation efforts of the two air forces.
