IAF to Host Second Edition of Tarang Shakti

The Indian Air Force (IAF) will host the second edition of the multinational air exercise Tarang Shakti at Jodhpur in Rajasthan from 26 September to 12 October 2026. More than 40 countries are expected to take part in the exercise, and over 30 countries are expected to send delegates or observers.

Tarang Shakti Exercise

Tarang Shakti is a multinational air exercise conducted by the Indian Air Force. The exercise brings together air forces from multiple countries for joint training, operational familiarisation, and coordination in air operations.

Participating Countries and Aircraft

The United States is expected to participate with F-35 stealth fighters, France with Rafale jets, and the United Arab Emirates with F-16 aircraft. Australia, Germany, Greece, Singapore, Sri Lanka, and Bangladesh are also among the participating nations, and Germany is expected to send transport aircraft.

IAF Platforms in the Exercise

The Indian Air Force will deploy Rafale and Sukhoi-30 fighter jets, airborne early warning and control aircraft, transport aircraft, and air-to-air refuelling tankers. These platforms form part of the IAF’s frontline operational fleet and support air combat, surveillance, mobility, and refuelling roles.

Important Facts for Exams

• Tarang Shakti is a multinational air exercise of the Indian Air Force.
• The second edition is scheduled at Jodhpur in Rajasthan from 26 September to 12 October 2026.
• The inaugural edition was held in two phases in 2024 at Sulur in Tamil Nadu and Jodhpur in Rajasthan.
• AEW&C stands for airborne early warning and control.

Exercise Objectives and Earlier Edition

The exercise aims to improve interoperability, operational protocol understanding, and joint training among participating air forces. The first edition of Tarang Shakti was held in 2024 in two phases, from 6 to 14 August at Sulur and from 29 August to 14 September at Jodhpur.