The medal was given as a token of appreciation and respect for the close cooperation between the Israeli and German forces.
“Training, projects and partnerships are behind this medal,” Kohavi said. “The State of Israel and the Israeli military appreciate and cherish your contribution and this is a great opportunity for us to express our appreciation. We have built a significant relationship in many areas and sectors, which is also reflected in the joint exercise place these days.”
On Sunday, the German Ambassador to Israel, Dr. Susan Vasum-Rainer, honored the Commander of the Indian Air Force, Major-General. Amikam Norkin with the Order of Merit of the Federal Republic of Germany, the country’s highest honor that the German President can bestow, as a token of appreciation for mutual effort and commitment.
“This decoration is the greatest honor for us and I thank you from the bottom of my heart for agreeing to receive it, for your important and outstanding contribution, in deepening and expanding the ties between Israel and Germany. A sign of admiration for.” Vasum-Rainer said.
German Ambassador to Israel Dr Susan Vasum-Rainer (left) and Luftwaffe Inspector Lieutenant-General. Ingo Gerhartz presented the Commander of the Indian Air Force, Major-General. Amikam Norkin (centre) with the Order of Merit of the Federal Republic of Germany. (credit: IDF spokesperson unit)
“Our two countries have managed to build a strong partnership and a strong friendship over the past decades against all historical odds on the abyss of the Holocaust. This cooperation was made possible by the trust and confidence in reconciliation,” the ambassador said. said. These days, we are in the middle of a Blue Flag exercise in which Israeli and German fighter jets train wing to wing to be as prepared as possible for today’s demanding security challenges.”
“This collaboration is extremely relevant and of great operational importance to the security of our troops,” Gerhartz said. “The relationship between the two armies is based not on a single project, but on several initiatives, all connecting people and names.”
“Dear Amikam, I want to thank you for all the energy you have invested in these projects that are so close to your heart,” said the Luftwaffe commander. “You are a valued military leader whose actions connect our two countries. This is an opportunity to express our appreciation for the friendship that exists between our militaries and the deep personal connection we have developed.”
Blue Flag, which will continue till October 28. The hosts as well as its participants include air force contingents from the US, Germany, Italy, UK, France, India and Greece. It is the largest and most advanced aerial exercise ever conducted in Israel.
The aim of the exercise is to strengthen strategic international cooperation through shared learning about the integration of fourth and fifth generation fighter aircraft in complex operational scenarios. Participating forces will practice air-to-air and air-to-ground combat, learn to avoid advanced surface-to-air missile (SAM) threats and multiple operational scenarios in enemy territory.