Tarang Shakti 2026 Enters Operational Phase at Jodhpur Air Base

The Indian Air Force has moved into the operational phase of Exercise Tarang Shakti 2026 at Air Force Station Jodhpur, a day after the multilateral drill was formally inaugurated. The exercise runs from 26 September to 12 October 2026 under the theme "Power in Partnership".

Seven friendly foreign countries are taking part: Australia, the United States, the United Arab Emirates, France, Germany, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh. Their aircraft contingent includes the F-35 Lightning II, Rafale, F-16, A400M, MRTT, C-130, C-130J and KC-30A, spanning combat, airlift and air-to-air refuelling roles. A number of other partner nations are attending as observers.

Building on the first edition held in 2024, this year's exercise is designed to give participating air forces scope for advanced joint training and the exchange of operational experience. The visiting contingents will fly alongside the IAF, operating frontline platforms and support elements across a range of missions.

The programme extends beyond flying. Aircrew, mission planners and operational support staff will interact closely, with attention to interoperability, mutual learning, aerospace safety and a shared understanding of operating procedures.

A wider set of activities has also been organised, including a dedicated seminar, an industrial tour for the foreign contingents, the Sekhon Marathon, heritage tours and yoga sessions. These are intended to offer exposure to India's aerospace and industrial ecosystem while building camaraderie among the participants.

For the IAF, the exercise is an opportunity to display its operational capabilities and professional standards, and to highlight the country's growing indigenous aerospace and defence capabilities. The drill also reaffirms India's commitment to constructive defence engagement and military cooperation in support of regional peace, security and stability.