German A400M Joins Tarang Shakti 2026 Drills

Exercise Tarang Shakti 2026 is the second edition of the Indian Air Force’s multinational air exercise. It is being held from 26 September to 12 October 2026 at Air Force Station Jodhpur and adjoining airbases in Rajasthan. Germany has deployed an Airbus A400M military transport aircraft for the exercise.

Exercise Tarang Shakti 2026

Tarang Shakti 2026 carries the theme “Power in Partnership”. The exercise involves large-force engagements, fighter operations, and transport aircraft coordination. It is designed for multinational air operations with Indian and foreign air forces.

German A400M and Large-Force Engagements

The German A400M and its crew are taking part in large-force engagements with fighter jets and transport aircraft. German Air Force Captain Maurice Berns, a first officer on the A400M, stated on 6 October 2026 that the exercise helps transport crews operate in large formations and improve coordination with the Indian Air Force.

Participating Countries and Aircraft

Seven Friendly Foreign Countries are participating with air assets: Australia, the United States, the United Arab Emirates, France, Germany, Sri Lanka, and Bangladesh. Greece is also mentioned as a flying participant in some reports, taking the total to eight participating foreign countries.

Other foreign aircraft deployed include US Air Force F-35 Lightning II fighters, French Rafale aircraft, and UAE F-16 aircraft. The F-35 Lightning II is taking part in an Indian multinational air exercise for the first time.

Important Facts for Exams

• Exercise Tarang Shakti 2026 began with an inaugural ceremony on 26 September 2026 at Jodhpur Air Force Station.
• The operational phase of the exercise commenced on 27 September 2026.
• More than 80 Indian and foreign aircraft are involved in the exercise.
• About 1,500 personnel from participating countries are taking part, and 32 additional countries are attending as observers.

Women Participation in the Exercise

The exercise has recorded the largest-ever participation of women officers from the Indian Air Force in an international exercise. More than 25 women pilots are flying fighter jets and other aircraft as of 6 October 2026.

Air Force Station Jodhpur

Air Force Station Jodhpur is one of the main venues for Tarang Shakti 2026. Rajasthan has hosted the exercise along with adjoining airbases used for multinational flying operations.