Exercise Tarang Shakti 2026 Enters Operational Phase in Jodhpur with Seven Foreign Air Forces.
Jodhpur:
The Indian Air Force (IAF) has commenced the operational phase of Exercise Tarang Shakti 2026 at Air Force Station Jodhpur, bringing together India and seven friendly foreign countries for advanced air combat training, operational cooperation and professional exchange.
Being conducted from September 26 to October 12, 2026, the multilateral exercise is being held under the theme “Power in Partnership”, highlighting the importance of cooperation, interoperability and the exchange of operational expertise among participating air forces.
Seven Foreign Countries Join Multilateral Air Exercise
Australia, the United States, the United Arab Emirates, France, Germany, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh are participating in the exercise.
The foreign aircraft taking part include the F-35 Lightning II, Rafale, F-16, A400M, MRTT, C-130, C-130J and KC-30A, bringing together a broad range of fighter aircraft, airlift platforms and air-to-air refuelling capabilities.
Several other friendly foreign countries are also participating as observers, adding to the scope of professional interaction and knowledge-sharing during the exercise.
Advanced Joint Training and Operational Cooperation
Exercise Tarang Shakti 2026 builds on the inaugural edition conducted in 2024. The current edition provides participating air forces with an opportunity to undertake advanced joint training, exchange operational knowledge and strengthen professional cooperation.
Foreign contingents will operate alongside the Indian Air Force, with participating aircraft and support elements being employed across a range of missions.
The exercise is designed to provide valuable exposure to different operational procedures and approaches while allowing participating forces to work together in a complex multinational air environment.
Focus on Interoperability and Mutual Learning
A key focus of Tarang Shakti 2026 is enhancing interoperability among participating air forces.
Aircrew, mission planners and operational support personnel will interact throughout the exercise, with emphasis on mutual learning, aerospace safety and a better understanding of operational procedures.
The joint activities will enable participating personnel to exchange experiences and gain greater insight into the capabilities, operational methods and philosophies of partner air forces.
Professional, Cultural and Outreach Activities
The exercise extends beyond flying operations, with a range of professional, cultural and outreach activities scheduled for the participating contingents.
These include a dedicated seminar, industrial tours, the Sekhon Marathon, heritage tours and yoga sessions.
The activities are intended to promote professional exchange while providing foreign contingents with an opportunity to gain greater exposure to India’s aerospace and industrial ecosystem. They will also facilitate interaction and camaraderie among personnel from the participating countries.
India’s Aerospace and Defence Capabilities in Focus
Exercise Tarang Shakti 2026 provides the Indian Air Force with an opportunity to demonstrate its operational capabilities, professional standards and institutional ethos in a multinational environment.
The participation of multiple foreign air forces and a diverse range of aircraft platforms also provides a platform for India to highlight its growing aerospace and defence capabilities.
The exercise enables participating forces to share operational experiences while gaining a better understanding of each other’s capabilities and procedures.
Strengthening Long-Term Defence Partnerships
The theme “Power in Partnership” underlines the role of cooperation, interoperability and mutual trust in building enduring relationships among air forces.
Through joint flying activities, professional exchanges and cultural engagements, Exercise Tarang Shakti 2026 is aimed at strengthening military cooperation between the Indian Air Force and its international partners.
The exercise also reflects India’s continued focus on constructive defence engagement and enhanced military cooperation in support of regional peace, security and stability.
