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US F-35A Jets Join Tarang Shakti 2026 Training
US F-35A fighter jets flew from an air base in Jodhpur as part of a large air force exercise.
The exercise is called Tarang Shakti 2026.
The Indian Air Force is taking part with air forces from seven other countries.
They are practicing flying and working together.
Other aircraft include fighter jets, transport planes and refuelling planes.
The exercise is scheduled to run from September 26 to October 12, 2026.
Aircrew and support teams can also share knowledge and learn about each other's work.
The program includes seminars, tours, a marathon and yoga sessions.
US Air Force F-35A Lightning II jets took off for a joint training flight at Jodhpur Air Force Station during Tarang Shakti 2026.
The aircraft are assigned to the 13th Fighter Squadron at Misawa Air Base in Japan.
The Indian Air Force is hosting the exercise’s operational phase with forces from seven foreign countries.
Participating aircraft include the F-35 Lightning II, Rafale, F-16, A400M, MRTT, C-130, C-130J and KC-30A.
The exercise includes combined air operations, professional exchanges and cultural and outreach activities.
- Who
- The Indian Air Force, the US Air Force and air forces from seven Friendly Foreign Countries.
- What
- Tarang Shakti 2026, a multinational exercise featuring combined air operations, joint training and professional exchanges.
- Where
- Air Force Station Jodhpur, Jodhpur, India.
- When
- September 26 to October 12, 2026; the F-35A flight was described as taking place last week.
- Why
- To train together, improve interoperability and operational coordination, exchange experience and build partnerships.
Key facts
- Exercise
- Tarang Shakti 2026
- Theme
- “Power in Partnership”
- Scheduled dates
- September 26 to October 12, 2026
- Host location
- Air Force Station Jodhpur
- Foreign participants
- Australia, the United States, the United Arab Emirates, France, Germany, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh
- US aircraft unit
- 13th Fighter Squadron, based at Misawa Air Base, Japan
- Previous edition
- The inaugural Tarang Shakti was held in 2024
Quotes
Ministry of Defence
Indian government ministry describing the purpose of the exercise
“operate together, share experiences and gain a better understanding of each other's capabilities and operating philosophies.”
republicworld.com
“strengthen interoperability, enhance operational coordination and build partnerships through combined air operations.”
republicworld.com
Sources
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