Why in the News?
- The Indian Air Force (IAF) commenced the operational phase of Exercise Tarang Shakti 2026 at Air Force Station Jodhpur.
- The multilateral air exercise is being conducted from 26 September to 12 October 2026 under the theme “Power in Partnership”.
Key Highlights
- Organiser: Indian Air Force (IAF).
- Venue: Air Force Station Jodhpur, Rajasthan.
- Duration: 26 September – 12 October 2026.
- Nature: Multilateral air exercise.
- Theme: “Power in Partnership”.
- Participating Friendly Foreign Countries (FFCs): 7 : Australia, USA, UAE, France, Germany, Sri Lanka, and Bangladesh
- Several other FFCs will participate as observers.
- Builds on the inaugural edition held in 2024.
- Participating Aircraft: F-35 Lightning II, Rafale, F-16, A400M, MRTT, C-130, C-130J, and KC-30A
Operational Significance
- Focuses on:
- Advanced joint training
- Exchange of operational expertise
- Interoperability
- Aerospace safety
- Mutual learning
- Understanding different operational procedures and philosophies
- Participating forces will conduct missions alongside the IAF using frontline combat platforms and support elements.
Beyond Flying Operations
- Professional activities: Dedicated seminar and industrial tour.
- Cultural/outreach activities:
- Sekhon Marathon
- Heritage tours
- Yoga sessions
- These activities aim to promote professional interaction, cultural exchange and greater camaraderie among participating forces.
Prelims Quick Revision
- Exercise: Tarang Shakti 2026.
- Theme: Power in Partnership.
- Organiser: Indian Air Force.
- Location: Jodhpur, Rajasthan.
- Dates: 26 September – 12 October 2026.
- Type: Multilateral air exercise.
- 7 participating FFCs: Australia, USA, UAE, France, Germany, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh.
- Previous edition: 2024.
UPSC Prelims Trap
- Tarang Shakti is an air exercise: It is conducted by the Indian Air Force, not the Indian Navy or Army.
- 2026 venue: Jodhpur, not a naval or maritime facility.
- Multilateral vs bilateral: Tarang Shakti involves multiple foreign air forces, making it a multilateral exercise.
- Theme: The 2026 theme is “Power in Partnership”.
