The Indian Air Force (IAF) is gearing up for the second edition of its flagship multinational military exercise, wave powerscheduled to begin on September 27 at the Jodhpur Air Base. Marking a major highlight of the upcoming drills, the United States is set to deploy its advanced F-35 stealth fighter jet to India for the first time since recent regional engagements involving Iran.
Tarang Shakti 2026: Global Participation and Capabilities
As the IAF’s premier biennial multinational exercise, Tarang Shakti brings together air forces from over 30 nations. While aerial assets and fighter jets from roughly half a dozen countries—including the United States, Japan, Australia, France, and Greece—are expected to participate directly, military observers from the remaining nations will also be in attendance.
The exercise will showcase the tactical prowess of frontline Indian aircraft, featuring the Rafale, Sukhoi, MiG-29, Mirage 2000, and indigenous LCA Tejas, alongside Apache and LCH Prachand attack helicopters, heavy-lift transport planes, and Airborne Warning and Control System (AWACS) units.
Bilateral Engagement: Veer Guardian with Japan
Ahead of the main multinational drills, the Indian and Japanese air forces will engage in a joint bilateral exercise titled Veer Guardian in Jodhpur. Building upon previous iterations held in Japan, this year’s bilateral exercise will feature advanced maneuvers involving the Indian Air Force’s Sukhoi (Su-30 MKI) alongside Japanese Mitsubishi F-2 multirole fighter jets, further strengthening defense cooperation between the two allied nations.