Target HMS Prince of Wales: F-35s fight off simulated attack from Indian warplanes
Target the Prince of Wales – those were the orders given to Indian fighter pilots as their British counterparts were determined to defend the flagship in a realistic scenario played out over the Arabian Sea.
The UK Carrier Strike Group, led by aircraft carrier HMS Prince of Wales, ended its visit to India with a major workout for UK-Indian air power.
The task force, which had been in Goa and Mumbai promoting UK industry and strengthening ties between London and Delhi, sailed for the conclusion of Exercise Konkan, the regular test of the Commonwealth nations' navies.
Konkan, which takes its name from the stretch of coastline on India's western seaboard, allows the Royal Navy and Indian navy to hone their collective skills.
Half a dozen F-35Bs acted as the carrier's shield, while a dozen Indian fast jets – eight Su-30 Flankers and four Jaguars, aided by an Il-78 Mainstay AWACS aircraft – tried to penetrate the defensive screen.
The Indian air force jets attempted a number of simulated strikes at the flagship as well as her escorts.
For the air power of both nations, the mock dogfights allowed personnel to test individual skills, weapons systems and sensors.
They also allowed both sides to test their tactics against pilots and aircraft they do not normally encounter.
Lieutenant Daniel Randel, a staff officer on board HMS Prince of Wales, said: "Konkan has been a great opportunity to see how the Indian armed forces work.
"Working with both their navy and air force has been a unique experience in my career so far."
While HMS Prince of Wales enjoyed a visit to Goa, HMS Richmond sailed into Mumbai and hosted a string of high-profile events, showcasing the best of British industry and underscoring cultural ties between the UK and India.
Some of the frigate's crew joined Devashree Sanghvi, better known as the Crazy Indian Foodie, an award-winning food and travel blogger, for some of Mumbai's best culinary experiences.
The football team also took on the Indian navy – honours were shared thanks to a 1-1 draw – and the vessel welcomed Defence Minister Lord Coaker, who hosted a joint industry event declaring both nations were "alive with opportunity".
"Our port visit to Mumbai was extremely enjoyable," said Lieutenant Commander Andy Hunt, HMS Richmond's weapon engineer officer.
"We were very well looked after by our Indian navy hosts. It was especially rewarding to spend time with them ashore, having recently operated with them at sea during Exercise Konkan."
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