India is set to host one of the largest multinational Air Exercise named Tarang Shakti starting of August 6. On July 31, 2023, the Indian Air Force (IAF) kicked off its largest multinational air exercise, “Tarang Shakti,” with a press conference in New Delhi. This marks the first time India has hosted such a large-scale, international air exercise.
A Historic Event
“Exercise Shiksha” was the last significant multinational air exercise to take place in India in 1963. That event included the air forces of the USA, UK, and Australia. Tarang Shakti is set to be much larger and more inclusive. The IAF invited 51 countries to participate in this groundbreaking event.
Two Phases of the Exercise
The multilateral Tarang Shakti air exercise is set to be conducted in two different phases.
Phase I: Sulur Airbase
Phase I will be held at AF Station Sulur in Tamil Nadu from August 6 to 14, 2024. This airbase is home to the LCA Tejas and is India’s second-largest airbase. The participants include air forces from Germany, France, Spain, and the UK. Indian Navy’s MiG-29K fighters will also join.
Sulur Airbase has a rich history. It started as a Royal Navy base and became an IAF base after the liberation of Goa. It houses various aircraft, including transport and helicopters. The Sarang helicopter display team and the LCA Tejas squadron are based here.
Phase II: Jodhpur Airbase
Phase II will occur at AF Station Jodhpur in Rajasthan from August 29 to September 14, 2024. This phase will include USA, Australia, Bangladesh, Greece, UAE, and Singapore along with 18 observer countries.
Jodhpur Airbase has been crucial in past Indo-Pakistan wars and has hosted many major aircraft over the years. It has been home to several important aircraft and has hosted various bilateral air exercises with countries like the USA, France, and Oman.
Countries Invited
The IAF invited air forces from all continents. From Africa, countries like Algeria, Kenya, and Nigeria are participating. In Asia, nations such as Japan, Malaysia, and Saudi Arabia have been invited. Europe is represented by France, Germany, and the UK. The USA is the only North American participant. From South America, Argentina and Brazil are included.
Russia and Israel were not invited due to their current regional conflicts. However, Russia had been considered initially.
Participating Forces
The participating forces will bring a variety of aircraft. For instance, Australia will bring F-18s, while France will showcase Rafale jets. The USA will send F-16s and A-10s. The IAF will field several aircraft, including the LCA Tejas, Su-30 MKI, and Mirage 2000. IAF assets will have the chance to interact with international equipment and gain knowledge from experiences across borders during this exercise.
The Importance of Tarang Shakti
Tarang Shakti is more than just an exercise. It helps build professional relationships with other air forces. Hosting such a large-scale event is a learning experience for the IAF. It involves complex planning and coordination to ensure the safety and effectiveness of the missions.
Both phases will involve various aircraft and equipment, including fighters, radars, and missile systems. The exercise will test maintenance crews and ensure high serviceability standards.
Showcasing Indian Defense
During the exercise, India will highlight its indigenous defense equipment. The LCA Tejas, LCH Prachand, and other Made-in-India systems will showcase their capabilities. The Sulur and Jodhpur bases will host defense and technology exhibitions. High-level military engagements and participation from IAF’s Agniveers will further highlight India’s defense capabilities.
Future of Tarang Shakti
India’s growing economic and military stature positions it as a key global player. Tarang Shakti is a testament to this new role. It allows the IAF to learn and share best practices with leading international air forces and its aircraft’s.
As defense analyst Angad Singh notes, the exercise will stress-test participating forces and provide valuable insights. The exercise aims to enhance integration and foster a collaborative understanding among nations.
Will Tarang Shakti become a regular multinational exercise? Only time will tell. But for now, it stands as a significant achievement for the Indian Air Force and a showcase of India’s growing influence on the global stage.