New Delhi: Tarang Shakti 2026 is set to become one of the biggest multinational air exercises ever hosted by the Indian Air Force (IAF).
The exercise will bring together friendly foreign air forces, advanced aircraft, and defence experts from around the world. According to IAF Vice Chief Air Marshal Ashutosh Dixit, the event will showcase India’s rapidly growing aerospace and defence capabilities while strengthening military cooperation with partner nations.
What Is Tarang Shakti 2026
Tarang Shakti is a multinational air combat exercise organized by the Indian Air Force. The second edition of the exercise will be held from 26 September to 12 October 2026 at Air Force Station Jodhpur, Rajasthan. The event is expected to involve around 40 nations, making it one of the largest military aviation exercises hosted by India.
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The primary aim of the exercise is to improve cooperation, interoperability, tactical coordination, and operational understanding among participating air forces.
IAF Vice Chief Highlights India’s Growing Capabilities
During a press briefing, Air Marshal Ashutosh Dixit said that Tarang Shakti 2026 provides India with a valuable opportunity to demonstrate the capabilities of its aerospace and defence industries to friendly partner countries.
He emphasized that the exercise will help participating nations exchange operational experiences, learn best practices, and strengthen defence partnerships. According to the IAF leadership, such engagements are important in today’s rapidly changing security environment.
Tarang Shakti 2026: Major International Participation Expected
Several countries are expected to participate with advanced military aircraft and support platforms. According to information shared during the briefing:
France
France is expected to deploy:
- Rafale fighter aircraft
- A400M transport aircraft
- MRTT aerial refuelling aircraft
United Arab Emirates
The UAE is expected to participate with:
- F-16 fighter aircraft
- Global 6000 surveillance aircraft
United Kingdom
The Royal Air Force is expected to bring:
- C-130J transport aircraft
Germany
Germany is expected to participate with:
- A400M transport aircraft
Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka is expected to deploy:
- KA-360ER surveillance aircraft
United States
The United States is expected to field:
- F-35 fifth-generation fighter aircraft
- KC-135 aerial refuelling tanker aircraft
The participation of the F-35 is attracting significant attention because it would mark the aircraft’s first appearance in a military exercise hosted in India.
Why Tarang Shakti 2026 Is Important
The exercise will allow multiple air forces to train together in realistic operational scenarios. This helps improve communication, coordination, and mission planning among partner nations.
Showcasing India’s Defence Industry
India has been focusing on indigenous defence manufacturing and aerospace development. Recent growth in domestic defence production, exports, and military technology has strengthened India’s position as an emerging aerospace and defence hub.
Improving Operational Readiness
Complex multinational exercises help pilots, planners, and support crews prepare for modern security challenges. Training alongside advanced aircraft and foreign air forces enhances operational knowledge and readiness.
India’s Expanding Aerospace Ecosystem
India’s aerospace sector has seen significant progress in recent years. Indigenous platforms such as the Tejas, HTT-40 trainer aircraft, and Dhruv-NG helicopter demonstrate the country’s growing design and manufacturing capabilities. Recent deliveries of these platforms highlight India’s efforts toward defence self-reliance.
The government and industry are also increasing investments in defence research, innovation, and domestic manufacturing to reduce dependence on imports and strengthen long-term capabilities.
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FAQs
Tarang Shakti 2026 is a multinational air exercise hosted by the Indian Air Force from 26 September to 12 October 2026 in Jodhpur, Rajasthan, involving friendly foreign air forces and military aircraft from multiple countries.
Countries expected to participate include the United States, France, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom, Germany, Sri Lanka, and several other partner nations.
The exercise helps India strengthen defence partnerships, improve military interoperability, and showcase the capabilities of its aerospace and defence industry to the global community.
