Exercise Tarang Shakti 2026: IAF Hosts Multinational Air Exercise in Jodhpur

Why in the News?

The Indian Air Force (IAF) is hosting the flagship multinational air exercise **Exercise Tarang Shakti 2026** at the Air Force Station in Jodhpur, Rajasthan, from September 26 to October 12, 2026.

Key Features / Major Points:

- Official Theme: The official theme for 2026 is **“Power in Partnership”**.

- Participating Nations: Features active participation from 7 foreign air forces (United States, France, Germany, Australia, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and the United Arab Emirates) alongside 32 observer nations.

- Notable Aircraft & Platforms: Highlights the maiden operational participation of U.S. Air Force **F-35 stealth fighters** alongside French Rafales, UAE F-16s, and Indian assets including the Tejas, Rafale, Su-30MKI, and Mirage-2000.

- Key Activities: Focuses on counter-air drills, air defense operations, aerial refueling, tactical coordination, and complex joint mission planning.

- Strategic Objective: Aims to foster interoperability, exchange best practices, and deepen military-to-military cooperation among participating air forces.

Static GK Facts:

- Host Organization: Indian Air Force (IAF).

- Chief of the Air Staff: Air Chief Marshal A.P. Singh.

- Air Force Station Jodhpur: Located in Rajasthan, one of the IAF's premier frontline bases.

- Indian Air Force Day: Celebrated annually on October 8.

One-Liner Quiz (All Competitive Exams):

Q: Where is the Indian Air Force hosting the multinational Exercise Tarang Shakti 2026?

A: Air Force Station Jodhpur, Rajasthan

Q: What is the official theme for Exercise Tarang Shakti 2026?

A: “Power in Partnership”

Q: Which foreign stealth fighter aircraft made its maiden operational participation in Tarang Shakti 2026?

A: U.S. Air Force F-35 Stealth Fighter

Q: How many foreign nations participated as observers in Exercise Tarang Shakti 2026?

A: 32 nations

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