The Indian Air Force has commenced the operational phase of Exercise Tarang Shakti 2026 at Jodhpur, with seven foreign countries joining the multilateral air exercise.
Jodhpur: The Indian Air Force (IAF) has 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 exchanges.
The multilateral exercise, being conducted from September 26 to October 12, 2026, carries the theme “Power in Partnership”, highlighting cooperation, interoperability, professional exchange and mutual trust among participating air forces.
The operational phase follows the inaugural ceremony held on September 26.
Seven Friendly Foreign Countries are participating in the exercise:
The participating foreign aircraft include the F-35 Lightning II, Rafale, F-16, A400M, MRTT, C-130, C-130J and KC-30A.
The aircraft bring together a combination of combat, strategic and tactical airlift, and air-to-air refuelling capabilities, providing participating air forces an opportunity to conduct training across different operational scenarios.
Building on the first edition of Exercise Tarang Shakti held in 2024, the 2026 exercise is designed to facilitate advanced joint training and exchange of operational expertise.
Foreign contingents will operate alongside the IAF using frontline combat aircraft and support assets across a range of missions.
Several other foreign air forces are also participating as observers, providing additional opportunities for professional interaction and understanding of multinational air operations.
The exercise will bring together aircrew, mission planners and operational support personnel, with particular emphasis on interoperability, aerospace safety and mutual understanding of operational procedures.
Exercise Tarang Shakti 2026 will extend beyond flying activities, with a range of professional, cultural and outreach programmes planned for the participating contingents.
These include a dedicated seminar, industrial tour, Sekhon Marathon, heritage tours and yoga sessions.
The activities are intended to facilitate professional exchange while giving foreign contingents an opportunity to gain exposure to India’s aerospace and industrial ecosystem.
Cultural and recreational engagements are also expected to strengthen interaction and camaraderie among personnel from participating countries.
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 participation of advanced aircraft from multiple air forces also provides opportunities for the participating contingents to understand different operational philosophies and learn from one another.
Under the theme “Power in Partnership,” the exercise places emphasis on cooperation and interoperability as key elements of sustained air-force partnerships.
According to the Ministry of Defence, Exercise Tarang Shakti 2026 reinforces India’s commitment to constructive defence engagement and enhanced military cooperation.
The exercise is intended to contribute to greater understanding and trust among participating air forces through shared operational experience.
With the operational phase continuing until October 12, the exercise will provide participating air forces with opportunities for joint training, professional interaction and exchange of operational practices.
The exercise is also aimed at strengthening defence partnerships and supporting broader efforts towards regional peace, security and stability.
