Following its grand inaugural ceremony, the Indian Air Force (IAF) has officially commenced the high-intensity operational phase of Exercise Tarang Shakti 2026 at Air Force Station Jodhpur.
Scheduled to run through October 12, 2026, this premier multilateral air exercise is anchored under the theme “Power in Partnership”, highlighting the collective strength derived from shared operational expertise, mutual trust, and robust interoperability.
A Diverse Showcase of Global Air Power
The mega exercise features active participation from seven Friendly Foreign Countries (FFCs)—Australia, the United States, the United Arab Emirates, France, Germany, Sri Lanka, and Bangladesh.
Skies over Rajasthan are witnessing a formidable line-up of global combat, airlift, and refuelling assets, including advanced platforms like the F-35 Lightning II, Rafale, F-16, A400M, and MRTT.
Operating side-by-side with the IAF’s frontline fleet, participating aircrews are engaging in complex multi-domain tactical drills designed to mirror modern aerial warfare scenarios. A significant number of additional countries are also attending the exercise as observers, widening its international footprint.
Beyond Flight Operations: Fostering Strategic Camaraderie
Building on the resounding success of its inaugural edition, Tarang Shakti 2026 is designed to look past traditional flying exercises. The curriculum incorporates extensive professional, cultural, and outreach programs—ranging from dedicated tactical seminars and industrial tours showcasing India’s indigenous defence ecosystem to the Sekhon Marathon, heritage tours, and collaborative yoga sessions.
Through these integrated engagements, the IAF aims to demonstrate its professional standards, project India’s expanding indigenous aerospace capabilities, and reinforce a firm commitment to regional peace, security, and constructive global defence collaboration.
