Jodhpur, Sep 27 (KNS): The Indian Air Force on Saturday commenced the operational phase of the multilateral air exercise Tarang Shakti 2026 at Air Force Station Jodhpur, with seven foreign countries participating in the drills.

The exercise, being conducted from September 26 to October 12 under the theme “Power in Partnership”, involves air forces from Australia, the United States, the United Arab Emirates, France, Germany, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh, according to the Ministry of Defence.

Foreign aircraft participating in the exercise include the F-35 Lightning II, Rafale, F-16, A400M, MRTT, C-130, C-130J and KC-30A, bringing together combat, airlift and air-to-air refuelling capabilities.

The exercise is aimed at providing the participating air forces opportunities for advanced joint training, exchange of operational experience and enhancing interoperability, the ministry said.

The participating contingents will operate alongside the IAF in a range of missions, while several other foreign countries will participate as observers.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel

The drills will also facilitate interaction among aircrew, mission planners and operational support personnel, with focus on mutual learning, aerospace safety and understanding operational procedures and capabilities.

Beyond flying operations, Tarang Shakti 2026 will feature professional, cultural and outreach activities, including a seminar, industrial tour for foreign contingents, Sekhon Marathon, heritage tours and yoga sessions.

The exercise, which follows its inaugural edition in 2024, is also intended to showcase India's aerospace and defence capabilities and strengthen military cooperation among participating air forces.

The Ministry of Defence said the exercise would contribute to enhanced defence engagement, interoperability and strategic cooperation through shared operational experience.(KNS)