IAF to Host Second Edition of Multinational Air Exercise Tarang Shakti in Rajasthan

The Indian Air Force (IAF) will host the second edition of its multinational air exercise, Tarang Shakti, at Jodhpur in Rajasthan. More than 40 countries are expected to take part.

Exercise Tarang Shakti 2026 to Be Held from 26 September to 12 October at Jodhpur

Unlike the first edition, this year's exercise will be held in a single phase at Jodhpur. Large parts of western Rajasthan's airspace have already been reserved from 21 September to 7 October through a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM). Tarang Shakti is held once every two years and aims to build operational cooperation among air forces, strengthen defence ties and showcase India's own aerospace capabilities.

40 Countries Will Take Part in the Second Edition of Tarang Shakti

Several nations are sending fighter jets. The United States is likely to bring two or three F-35 stealth fighters, France its Rafale jets, and the United Arab Emirates its F-16s. Other countries, including Australia, Germany, Greece, Singapore, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh, are joining with aircraft such as transport planes. Over 30 more countries are expected to attend as observers.

The exercise follows Veer Guardian, the India-Japan bilateral air drill also held at Jodhpur from 9 to 22 September, where the IAF's Su-30MKI jets trained alongside Japan's F-2 fighters.

IAF Major Aircraft to Participate in Tarang Shakti 2026

The IAF will use its major assets, including frontline Rafale and Sukhoi-30 fighters. Airborne early warning and control aircraft, transport planes and air-to-air refuelling tankers will also be part of the drills.

Tarang Shakti 1st Edition 2024 Was Split Between Sulur and Jodhpur

The first edition, held in 2024, was conducted in two locations, Sulur and Jodhpur, and involved about 150 aircraft in total.

About Tarang Shakti Exercise

Tarang Shakti gives the IAF a chance to test its aircraft and tactics against foreign air forces. It also helps deepen India's defence partnerships and demonstrate its indigenous aerospace strength on a global platform