U.S. F-35 and French Rafale Jets to Join Indian Air Force in Major Exercise

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Narendra Jijhontiya

U.S. F-35 and French Rafale Jets to Join Indian Air Force in Major Exercise

New Delhi, September 22 (Daily Kiran) : The Indian Air Force is set to host a significant multinational air exercise, ‘Tarang Shakti 2026,’ featuring advanced fighter jets from the United States and France. Scheduled from September 28 to October 11, this exercise will take place at the Jodhpur Air Force Station and will see participation from around 40 countries.

Among the highlights, the U.S. will contribute six F-35 fighter jets and two KC-135 aircraft, while France will send seven Rafales, three A400M transport aircraft, and two MRTT planes. Australia and Bangladesh will also participate with a C-130 aircraft each, while Germany will contribute two A400M planes. Sri Lanka will join the exercise with a King Air 350, and the United Arab Emirates will bring six F-16s and a Global 6000 aircraft.

The Indian Air Force will showcase its leading fighter jets, including Rafales, Sukhoi-30 MKIs, LCA Tejas, Jaguars, Mirages, and MiG-29s. This will offer a unique opportunity for both Indian and foreign air forces to engage in complex aerial operations together.

The primary goal of ‘Tarang Shakti 2026’ is to enhance operational cooperation, coordination, and joint tactical processes among the participating nations. During the exercise, air forces will have the chance to understand each other’s operational procedures and experiences. They will practice conducting air operations under various conditions, tactical coordination, and mission-related capabilities.

The exercise will facilitate professional exchanges and operational experience sharing among different air forces. A special visitor and media day will be held on October 10, allowing close observation of the activities of the air force teams and their aircraft.

With the involvement of cutting-edge fighter jets, ‘Tarang Shakti 2026’ will serve as a vital platform for joint training and operational experience sharing between the Indian Air Force and its allied nations.

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