New Delhi, May 12 -- The aerial refueling operations conducted during the exercise represented significant capability validation, demonstrating compatibility between Indian fighters and French tanker aircraft. Technical compatibility was confirmed, with the basket-and-drogue end system being compatible regardless of tanker platform. While some younger pilots experienced their first French tanker contacts during Garuda VIII, many experienced aviators had conducted similar operations during previous exercises and during the original Rafale ferry flights from France to India. The Su-30MKI was characterised as well adapted for air-to-air refueling, with the aircraft demonstrating stability due to its size and weight. The probe position differen...