India Makes History as First Non-NATO Country to Join Spain’s Ocean Sky 2025 Exercise

India has made history by becoming the first non-NATO country to participate in Spain’s prestigious Ocean Sky 2025 exercise. Hosted by the Spanish Air Force at Gando Air Base in Gran Canaria from October 20 to 31, the multinational air combat drill aims to enhance interoperability, sharpen air combat skills, and strengthen defense cooperation among participating nations. The Indian Air Force's involvement underscores India's growing global military footprint and reinforces its role as an emerging aerospace power. This participation marks a significant milestone in India's defense diplomacy, highlighting its commitment to fostering international partnerships and enhancing operational readiness.

India and Spain Expand Strategic Defence Cooperation

• India is strengthening defence ties with Spain through strategic collaboration.
• It became the first non-NATO nation to participate in Ocean Sky 2025.
• India inaugurated its first private military aircraft plant, boosting indigenous production.
• The 5th Joint Working Group on Defence Cooperation enhances joint projects and technology sharing.
• These initiatives reflect a growing, long-term strategic partnership.

Important Key About NATO

• Established on April 4, 1949
• Headquarters located in Brussels, Belgium
• The current Secretary General is Jens Stoltenberg (as of October 2025)
• Total member countries: 32
• Founding members: 12
• Operates under the collective defense principle, Article 5
• Non-member countries with partnerships or aspirations include Bosnia and Herzegovina, Georgia, and Ukraine
• Nuclear member states: U.S., U.K., France
• Global partner countries include Australia, Japan, and South Korea
• NATO focuses on security, defense cooperation, and crisis management worldwide

Conclusion

India's participation in Spain's Ocean Sky 2025 as the first non-NATO country marks a significant milestone in its defence diplomacy. Hosted at Gando Air Base from October 20 to 31, the exercise underscores India's growing global military footprint and its commitment to enhancing interoperability with international partners. This collaboration reflects India's evolving role as a credible aerospace power, fostering mutual learning and strengthening defence cooperation with friendly nations. The Indian Air Force's involvement highlights its readiness to engage in complex joint operations, reinforcing long-term strategic partnerships.