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

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

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

India to Showcase Advanced Military Assets  

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

Bangladesh’s decision to participate in Tarang Shakti Phase 2 is particularly noteworthy in light of recent political developments in the country. Despite domestic challenges, Bangladesh'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  

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

Reports have indicated that the Indian Air Force expressed interest in involving the tetra-pack Rafale fighter jets in the exercise. However, the Hellenic Air Force (HAF) was requested to participate with F-16 fighters instead. 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 the US, Japan, Great Britain, and Australia. This extensive involvement highlights the exercise's role as a platform for co-training with leading air forces and flying some of the most modern fighters in both Western and Eastern arsenals. Japanese pilots, for the first time, will participate with Mitsubishi F-2 fighters, a variant based on the F-16, further showcasing the diversity of aircraft and training opportunities.

In the 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. The Indian Air Force will also deploy Prachand, Dhruv, and Apache helicopters, adding to the impressive array of military hardware on display. As the exercise progresses, it is set to provide invaluable opportunities for participating nations to enhance their operational readiness and strengthen international military partnerships.