Iniochos 2023: Indian pilot with a Greek "Mehmetçik Busters" patch

An Indian pilot at the Iniochos 2023 exercises in western Greece was photographed wearing a "Mehmetçik Busters" patch, something often worn by Greek Mirage 2000-5 fighter jet pilots.

The Indian pilot in question is seen shaking the hands of General Konstantinos Floros, Chief of the Hellenic National Defence General Staff, showing the friendly attitude between the Greek and Indian militaries.

Mehmetçik ( 'little Mehmet') is a term originating from World War I that was used to affectionately refer to soldiers of the Turkish Army, and in this way it is not difficult to figure out what is meant by "Mehmetçik Busters."

The Indian Air Force (IAF) is participating in Exercise INIOCHOS-23, a multi-national air exercise hosted by the Hellenic Air Force, the air force of Greece.

The exercise is being conducted at the Andravida Air Base in Greece from April 24 to May 4, 2023. The Indian Air Force will be participating with four Su-30 MKI and two C-17 aircraft.

The objective of the exercise is to enhance international cooperation, synergy and interoperability among the participating Air Forces

The exercise is being conducted in a realistic combat scenario involving multiple types of air and surface assets. It will also enable the participating contingents to engage in professional interactions, providing valuable insight into each other’s best practices.

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