The Israeli Air Force launched an international drone exercise on Monday, hosting pilots from five other countries, the IDF Spokesperson's Unit said, adding the exercise has "strategic importance" because of close ties the IAF maintains with foreign counterparts.
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"Blue Guardian" is the first international drone-focused military exercise ever held. Aviation teams from the United States, Britain, Germany, Italy, and France have joined the IAF for the drill, which will stretch across two weeks and see drones fly primarily over the Palmachim Airbase in central Israel.
The foreign pilots will have the chance to fly IAF Hermes-450 unmanned aerial vehicles, the military said.
The exercise will see the teams "simulate various scenarios, including ground troop support, reconnaissance, and intelligence collections missions and cooperation with various forces in the air," IDF Spokesperson's Unit said in a statement.
"Israel is a pioneer in the field of UAVs," IAF Commander Maj. Gen. Amikam Norkin said Tuesday.
"This exercise presents a platform for mutual study and growth. The exercise has national importance and influence in establishing the air force on the international level."
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