Exercise Tarang Shakti 2026: Key Highlights and Significance

Exercise Tarang Shakti 2026 strengthened India's international defence partnerships and showcased its indigenous aerospace capabilities. The Indian Air Force (IAF) hosted the second edition of this multinational air exercise at Air Force Station Jodhpur, Rajasthan, from 26 September to 12 October 2026.

Under the theme “Power in Partnership,” the exercise brought together seven Friendly Foreign Countries (FFCs) and 32 observer nations. It promoted operational cooperation, professional learning and defence self-reliance.

Exercise Tarang Shakti 2026: Key Highlights

Participating Countries

Seven countries participated in Exercise Tarang Shakti 2026:

• Australia
• Bangladesh
• France
• Germany
• Sri Lanka
• United Arab Emirates
• United States of America

Note: The participation of these countries and 32 observer nations highlighted international interest in India's operational capabilities and growing defence industry.

Objectives and Strategic Significance

• Exercise Tarang Shakti 2026 focused on improving cooperation among participating air forces. It allowed aircrew, mission planners, and support personnel to exchange operational experience and understand different procedures.
• The exercise also strengthened interoperability, helping participating forces work together more effectively. These exchanges support operational preparedness and build professional relationships between partner nations.
• The exercise also highlighted lessons from Operation Sindoor, particularly the importance of integrated planning, operational readiness, and the effective use of air power in complex security environments.

Indigenous Defence Technology: LCA Tejas and LCH Prachand

The exercise showcased two important indigenous platforms:

• Their presence reflected India's commitment to Aatmanirbhar Bharat and its efforts to strengthen domestic defence manufacturing, engineering and technological innovation.
• The exercise also provided an opportunity for partner nations to observe India's expanding aerospace and defence ecosystem.

Cultural Engagement and Public Outreach

• Exercise Tarang Shakti extended beyond flying operations. Industrial tours introduced participating contingents to India's defence manufacturing sector, while yoga sessions, heritage visits and cultural activities encouraged mutual understanding.
• The Open Day attracted more than 20,000 visitors, allowing the public to observe the Indian Air Force's aircraft, capabilities and personnel.
• The exercise also coincided with India's celebration of the 94th Anniversary of the Indian Air Force. Over more than nine decades, the IAF has developed into a modern aerospace force with expanding operational capabilities and a growing indigenous technology base.

Exercise Tarang Shakti 2026 demonstrated India's commitment to international defence cooperation and technological self-reliance. By bringing together partner air forces and showcasing indigenous platforms, the exercise strengthened professional ties and highlighted India's growing aerospace capabilities.

Its theme, “Power in Partnership,” reflects the importance of international cooperation alongside a strong, capable, and self-reliant Indian Air Force.