♦ For the first time, the Indian Air Force is set to train pilots of the UK's Royal Air Force under a new initiative. The decision was taken at the 19th UK-India Air Staff Talks held in New Delhi on 12 February 2026. 

♦ Under the latest agreement, the Indian Air Force will deploy three Qualified Flight Instructors (QFI) to Royal Air Force (RAF) Valley in the UK - the training base for British fast jet pilots.

♦ This marks the first time that Indian QFIs will impart fast jet training to British pilots at RAF Valley. The deployment will be initially for a period of two years. 

♦ The signing of this Letter of Agreement is a significant step in strengthening the longstanding relationship between the Royal Air Force and the Indian Air Force.