As a rare and symbolic gesture, F-15 combat jets of the Royal Saudi Air Force escorted Prime Minister Narendra Modi's flight as it entered Saudi airspace on Tuesday. The two-day visit underscores India's growing strategic partnership with the Kingdom. Modi, ahead of landing in Jeddah, called Saudi Arabia “one of India's most valued partners – a maritime neighbour, a trusted friend, and a strategic ally.”

During the visit, Modi and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman will co-chair the Strategic Partnership Council, reviewing bilateral ties across defence, energy, and trade. In an interview, Modi highlighted the deepening defence collaboration, saying, “The growing defence and security cooperation is a reflection of mutual trust.”

India and Saudi Arabia have made major strides in defence ties, conducting their first joint army drill last year and planning a third joint naval exercise, Al-Mohed Al-Hindi. The aerial escort marks a new high in regional trust and cooperation.