The Lockheed Martin F-35A Lightning II is set to make its debut at Exercise Tarang Shakti 2026, the second edition of the Indian Air Force's (IAF) multinational air exercise. Hosted at Air Force Station Jodhpur, the exercise brings partner air forces together to train for joint operations and strengthen cooperation.
What Is Exercise Tarang Shakti 2026?
Exercise Tarang Shakti is an IAF-led multinational air exercise first conducted in 2024. It helps aircrew, mission planners and other personnel from partner nations understand the challenges of multinational missions.
The second edition began on 26 September 2026 and will continue till 12 October 2026. This year's theme, "Power in Partnership," reflects the growing importance of interoperability, professional exchange and mutual learning.
Participating Countries
Seven foreign partners are taking part in Tarang Shakti 2026: Australia, the United States, the United Arab Emirates, France, Germany, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh.
In addition, 32 countries are attending as observers, bringing the total number of participants, including India, to 40.
Aircraft in Tarang Shakti 2026
According to the Ministry of Defence, the foreign aircraft participating this year include:
- Lockheed Martin F-35A Lightning II (US)
- Dassault Rafale (France)
- General Dynamics F-16 (UAE)
- KC-30A air-to-air refuelling tanker (Australia)
- MRTT refuelling aircraft
- A400M airlifters
- C-130 and C-130J Super Hercules transport aircraft
This mix shows that modern air power is no longer about fighter jets alone. Tankers, airlifters and transport aircraft play an equally vital role, and the exercise helps nations learn how to combine these assets for their operational needs.
Why Tarang Shakti 2026 Matters?
The nature of warfare is changing. Air power today goes beyond dogfights and includes aerial refuelling and integrated operations across different elements of an air force.
Multinational exercises allow forces to test their capabilities, understand how each element works during operations and identify possible challenges.
For India, hosting Tarang Shakti 2026 offers several benefits:
- Strengthening defence ties with other air powers
- Gaining exposure to multilateral cooperation
- Positioning India as a viable defence partner
- Preparing the IAF for future operational needs
Before You Go
Tarang Shakti 2026 highlights the IAF's emerging role in multinational air operations and its growing focus on interoperability. More than a military exercise, it is a platform to build professional relationships and assess capabilities in a changing global landscape.
For NDA, CDS, AFCAT and other defence exam aspirants, Tarang Shakti 2026 is an important current affairs topic. Stay updated with the latest defence news and exam preparation tips with Major Kalshi Classes (MKC).
