The Indian Air Force (IAF) on Saturday commenced the operational phase of Exercise Tarang Shakti 2026 at Air Force Station Jodhpur, bringing together air forces from India and seven friendly foreign countries for advanced joint training and operational cooperation.
The multilateral air exercise, being conducted from September 26 to October 12, is themed “Power in Partnership”, highlighting the importance of cooperation, interoperability, shared expertise and mutual trust among participating air forces.
Seven countries participate
Seven Friendly Foreign Countries (FFCs) are participating in the exercise – Australia, the United States, the United Arab Emirates, France, Germany, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh.
The participating foreign aircraft include the F-35 Lightning II, Rafale, F-16, A400M, MRTT, C-130, C-130J and KC-30A, bringing together a mix of combat aircraft, airlift platforms and air-to-air refuelling capabilities.
Several other foreign countries are also participating as observers.
Building on the first edition of Exercise Tarang Shakti held in 2024, the 2026 exercise provides participating air forces an opportunity to undertake advanced joint training, exchange operational expertise and strengthen professional experience.
Foreign contingents will operate alongside the IAF using frontline combat platforms and support elements across a range of missions.
Focus on interoperability and operational learning
The exercise will facilitate professional interaction among aircrew, mission planners and operational support personnel, with emphasis on interoperability, mutual learning, aerospace safety and understanding of operational procedures.
The participating forces will have opportunities to operate together, exchange experiences and develop a better understanding of each other’s capabilities and operational approaches.
The exercise also provides an opportunity for the participating air forces to strengthen coordination and build greater familiarity with joint operational environments.
Professional and cultural activities planned
Exercise Tarang Shakti 2026 extends beyond flying operations, with a series of professional, cultural and outreach activities scheduled during the exercise.
These include a dedicated seminar, industrial tour for foreign contingents, Sekhon Marathon, heritage tours and yoga sessions.
The activities are intended to promote professional interaction, provide participating contingents exposure to India’s aerospace and industrial ecosystem, and strengthen camaraderie among personnel from the participating countries.
Showcasing India’s aerospace capabilities
The exercise provides the IAF with an opportunity to demonstrate its operational capabilities, professional standards and institutional ethos, while highlighting India’s growing indigenous aerospace and defence capabilities.
The theme “Power in Partnership” underscores the role of cooperation, interoperability and mutual trust in developing enduring relationships among participating air forces.
Exercise Tarang Shakti 2026 also reflects India’s commitment to constructive defence engagement and enhanced military cooperation in support of regional peace, security and stability. Through shared operational experience and professional interaction, the exercise seeks to strengthen partnerships and promote greater strategic cooperation among the participating air forces.
