Stories
Tarang Shakti 2026: Rafale, F-16 Jets Converge for Mega Jodhpur Air Exercise
- •The second edition of the multinational air exercise "Tarang Shakti" commenced at Air Force Station Jodhpur, Rajasthan, with over 40 countries participating.
- •The French Air and Space Force arrived with four Rafale jets, emphasizing the strategic partnership between France and India and their commitment to working together.
- •The exercise, scheduled from September 26 to October 12, will feature a wide array of aerial assets, including US F-35s, French Rafales, and UAE F-16s.
- •The Indian Air Force will deploy its frontline operational platforms, such as Rafale and Sukhoi-30 fighter jets, along with support assets like AEW&C aircraft and refuelling tankers.
- •The 2026 edition of Exercise Tarang Shakti is announced as India’s premier multinational air exercise, aiming to bring global Air Forces together for high-octane joint tactical manoeuvres.
Key Questions Answered
Tarang Shakti 2026 is the second edition of India's premier multinational air exercise, which began at Air Force Station Jodhpur in Rajasthan on Saturday, September 26, 2026, and is scheduled to run until October 12, 2026. The mega military drill brings together air forces from over 40 countries to engage in joint tactical maneuvers and operational cooperation.
The multinational exercise features advanced aerial assets from various global air forces, including France deploying seven Rafale fighter jets, the United States deploying two to three F-35 fifth-generation stealth combat aircraft, and the United Arab Emirates participating with F-16 fighter jets alongside support and transport aircraft.
The Indian Air Force is fielding its major frontline operational platforms for the drills, including Rafale and Sukhoi-30 fighter jets, alongside support platforms such as airborne early warning and control (AEW&C) aircraft, transport planes, and air-to-air refuelling tankers.
