Global Air Forces Converge in Rajasthan for Phase 2 of Tarang Shakti, India’s Largest Air Exercise

Rajasthan, India - second phase of Tarang Shakti exercise, India's largest multinational air exercise, is underway in Rajasthan’s Jodhpur. event, from August 30 to September 14, will feature military aircraft from Australia, US, Greece, Banglesh, Singapore, and UAE, showcasing ir aerial capabilities. Officials have emphasized importance of this exercise in demonstrating India's growing role in global defence cooperation.  

A total of 10 countries are participating with ir air assets, while ors are involved as observers. Notable aircraft include Australia’s F-18, Banglesh’s C-130, Greece’s F-16, and USA’s A-10 and F-16, which will all be taking to Indian skies. se participating nations aim to demonstrate ir aerial prowess and interoperability, underscoring strategic significance of such exercises in enhancing global military collaboration.  

India to Showcase vanced Military Assets  

Host nation India will showcase an array of its vanced military assets during Tarang Shakti, including LCA Tejas, Su-30 MKIs, and Rafales. ditionally, Indian Air Force will deploy Sukhoi, Mirage, Jaguar, MiG-29, Prachand and Rudra attack helicopters, ALH Dhruv, C-130, IL-78, and AWACS assets. participation of Greece in this exercise marks a significant milestone as it is first time Greece has joined a military exercise in India. This participation follows India’s deployment of Su-30MKI fighter jets in Iniochos exercise in Greece earlier this year, reflecting strengning of military ties between two nations.

Banglesh’s decision to participate in Tarang Shakti Phase 2 is particularly noteworthy in light of recent political developments in country. Despite domestic challenges, Banglesh's involvement underscores its continued commitment to regional security cooperation. With over 18 nations participating and approximately 67 fighter jets involved, Tarang Shakti 2024 is a testament to India's growing influence in fostering multinational defence collaborations.  

Strategic Significance of Tarang Shakti 2024  

exercise also involves presence of Air Force chiefs from participating countries, furr highlighting event's importance. first phase of Tarang Shakti was conducted in Sulur, Tamil Nu, from August 6 to 14, with participation from France, Germany, Spain, and UK. second phase is expected to build on success of first, with an increased focus on interoperability and joint training.

Reports have indicated that Indian Air Force expressed interest in involving tetra-pack Rafale fighter jets in exercise. However, Hellenic Air Force (HAF) was requested to participate with F-16 fighters inste. This decision aligns with India’s strategic intent to train against aircraft models similar to those operated by Pakistan, a country with which India has ongoing tensions.  

A Platform for Global Military Engagement  

Tarang Shakti 2024 includes participation from 30 states globally, such as US, Japan, Great Britain, and Australia. This extensive involvement highlights exercise's role as a platform for co-training with leing air forces and flying some of most modern fighters in both Western and Eastern arsenals. Japanese pilots, for first time, will participate with Mitsubishi F-2 fighters, a variant based on F-16, furr showcasing diversity of aircraft and training opportunities.

In second phase of Tarang Shakti, 27 fighter aircraft, two tankers, two airborne early warning and control (AEW&C) systems, and three special forces aircraft will participate. Indian Air Force will also deploy Prachand, Dhruv, and Apache helicopters, ding to impressive array of military hardware on display. As exercise progresses, it is set to provide invaluable opportunities for participating nations to enhance ir operational reiness and strengn international military partnerships.