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Tarang Shakti 2026

Why in News?

The Indian Air Force (IAF) will host the second edition of the multinational air exercise Tarang Shakti 2026 at Jodhpur, Rajasthan, from 26 September to 12 October 2026. More than 40 countries are expected to participate or send representatives, while over 30 countries are expected to attend as observers. The exercise will bring together multiple air forces for joint tactical manoeuvres, operational cooperation, and defence engagement.

What is Exercise Tarang Shakti?

Tarang Shakti is a multinational air exercise organised by the Indian Air Force. It provides a platform for participating countries to conduct joint training, exchange operational practices, and improve interoperability between their air forces.

The inaugural edition was held in 2024 in two phases. The first phase took place at Sulur in Tamil Nadu, while the second phase was conducted at Jodhpur in Rajasthan. The 2026 edition will be hosted at Jodhpur Air Force Station.

Participating Countries and Aircraft

The exercise is expected to include several major international air forces. The United States is expected to deploy F-35 fifth-generation stealth fighter aircraft, France will participate with Rafale fighters, and the United Arab Emirates is expected to deploy F-16 aircraft.

Australia, Germany, Greece, Singapore, Sri Lanka, and Bangladesh are also among the countries reported to be participating. Germany is expected to contribute transport aircraft. The F-35’s participation had not yet been officially confirmed by the IAF in some reports, so it should be described as expected rather than guaranteed.

Indian Air Force Platforms

The IAF is expected to deploy several important operational platforms, including:

Rafale and Sukhoi-30 fighter aircraft
Airborne Early Warning and Control (AEW&C) aircraft
Transport aircraft
Air-to-air refuelling tankers
Other support and aviation assets

These platforms support air combat, surveillance, strategic mobility, and aerial refuelling operations. Joint exercises such as Tarang Shakti help participating air forces improve coordination and understand different operational procedures.