Why in News?
The Indian Air Force (IAF) will conduct the second edition of the multinational air exercise Tarang Shakti 2026 at Air Force Station Jodhpur, Rajasthan, from 26 September to 12 October 2026. The exercise is expected to feature participation from seven foreign air forces, which will deploy their respective air assets.
What is Tarang Shakti?
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Tarang Shakti is a multinational air exercise hosted by the Indian Air Force (IAF) that brings together air forces from India and other countries for joint training and operational cooperation.
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Purpose: The exercise focuses on improving interoperability, tactical coordination, joint mission planning and the exchange of operational experience among participating air forces.
Key Points:
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Host: The Indian Air Force (IAF) is hosting the exercise from 6 September to 12 October 2026.
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Venue: The main venue is Air Force Station Jodhpur, Rajasthan, along with adjoining air bases.
- Theme: Power in Partnership
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International Participation: Seven foreign air forces are reported to be participating directly — from the United States, France, Germany, Australia, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka and the UAE.
- Observers: Representatives from 32 countries are expected to attend as observers, adding a wider multinational dimension to the exercise.
- Operational Scope: The exercise will involve a wide range of air operations, including counter-air operations, air defence, reconnaissance, airlift and air-to-air refuelling.
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Aircraft Involved: The exercise features advanced aircraft from participating nations. The US is expected to deploy the F-35 Lightning II, while France is expected to field Rafale, A400M and MRTT aircraft and the UAE F-16s. Bangladesh is expected to participate with a C-130J.
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Indian Participation: The IAF will operate platforms including the Rafale, Tejas, Su-30MKI, MiG-29, Mirage-2000 and Jaguar.
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Operational Training: Activities cover several types of air operations, including air defence, counter-air operations, reconnaissance, airlift and air-to-air refuelling.
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US F-35 Participation: The US F-35 Lightning II is set to participate in Tarang Shakti for the first time in an exercise with the IAF, making it a notable feature of the 2026 edition.
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Other Foreign Aircraft: France is expected to deploy Rafale, A400M and MRTT aircraft, while the UAE is expected to participate with F-16s. Australia and Germany will field transport aircraft, while Bangladesh will contribute a C-130J.
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Indian Aircraft: The IAF will showcase a range of its aircraft, including the Rafale, Mirage-2000, Jaguar, Tejas, MiG-29 and Su-30MKI.
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Significance: Tarang Shakti provides participating air forces with an opportunity to train together, practise complex multinational air operations and share operational knowledge and experience.
KEY PRELIMS POINTS:
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What: A multinational air exercise hosted by the Indian Air Force (IAF).
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Edition: Second edition; the first edition was held in 2024.
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Venue: Air Force Station Jodhpur, Rajasthan, along with adjoining air bases.
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Foreign Participation: Seven countries are reported to be participating directly — USA, France, Germany, Australia, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka and UAE; 32 countries are expected as observers.
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Key Feature: The US F-35 Lightning II is participating for the first time in an exercise with the IAF. The exercise covers air defence, counter-air operations, reconnaissance, airlift and air-to-air refuelling.
UPSC MAINS PRACTICE QUESTIONS:
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Multinational military exercises are increasingly becoming instruments of strategic cooperation rather than merely platforms for military training.” In this context, discuss the significance of Tarang Shakti 2026 for India’s air power, defence preparedness and strategic partnerships. (10 marks, 150 words)
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Tarang Shakti 2026 brings together multiple foreign air forces and involves training across air defence, reconnaissance, airlift and air-to-air refuelling. Examine how such exercises contribute to interoperability and India’s ability to undertake complex multinational air operations. (10 marks, 150 words)
Sources : PIB, The HINDU
