New Delhi : The Indian Air Force (IAF) has commenced the operational phase of Exercise Tarang Shakti 2026 at Air Force Station Jodhpur, following the inaugural ceremony held on September 26. Conducted from September 26 to October 12, 2026, the multinational air exercise is being held under the theme “Power in Partnership”, highlighting cooperation, shared expertise and interoperability among participating air forces.
Seven Friendly Foreign Countries — Australia, the United States, the United Arab Emirates, France, Germany, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh — 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, bringing together a mix of combat, airlift and air-to-air refuelling capabilities.
Building on the inaugural edition held in 2024, Tarang Shakti 2026 provides participating air forces with opportunities for advanced joint training, operational knowledge exchange and professional interaction. Foreign contingents will operate alongside the IAF across a range of missions, while other Friendly Foreign Countries will participate as observers.
The exercise will facilitate interaction among aircrew, mission planners and operational support personnel, with emphasis on interoperability, mutual learning, aerospace safety and understanding of operational procedures and capabilities.
Beyond flying operations, the exercise includes a range of professional, cultural and outreach activities, including a dedicated seminar, industrial tour for foreign contingents, Sekhon Marathon, heritage tours and yoga sessions.
Tarang Shakti 2026 also provides the IAF an opportunity to demonstrate its operational capabilities, professional standards and institutional ethos, while showcasing India’s growing indigenous aerospace and defence capabilities.
Under the theme “Power in Partnership,” the exercise reinforces the importance of cooperation, interoperability and mutual trust in developing enduring partnerships among participating air forces.
The exercise further reflects India’s commitment to constructive defence engagement and enhanced military cooperation, while promoting shared operational experience and greater cooperation in support of regional peace, security and stability.
