The Indian Air Force (IAF) launched its first-ever multilateral air exercise, Tarang Shakti, at the Sulur Air Force Station in Tamil Nadu. This significant event starting today marks a milestone in international military cooperation, bringing together air forces from the United Kingdom, Germany, Spain, and France. The Royal Air Force (RAF) is a key participant, contributing 130 personnel, six Eurofighter Typhoons, two A330 Voyager air-to-air refuelers, and an A-400M military transport aircraft.
As reported previously by FinancialExpress.com Tarang Shakti provides a unique platform for the participating nations to work closely in a challenging multilateral environment, enhancing interoperability and sharing best practices. The exercise aims to foster collaboration and strengthen ties among the air forces, promoting stability and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region.
Lindy Cameron, British High Commissioner to India, expressed her support for the initiative, highlighting the importance of joint military exercises in maintaining regional security. Group Captain Neil Jones, Air Adviser at the British High Commission, emphasized that the exercise demonstrates the RAF’s capability to deploy and sustain air operations over long distances, showcasing its commitment to partnerships in the Indo-Pacific.
The exercise is not only significant for the RAF but also for the German Air Force, as noted by German Ambassador Dr Philipp Ackermann. He described Tarang Shakti as a historic moment, marking the first time the German Air Force has exercised with the IAF in India. Ingo Gerhartz, Lieutenant General and Inspector of the German Air Force, underscored the importance of global partnerships in an increasingly unstable world.
Prior to Tarang Shakti, the RAF’s Typhoons participated in Exercise Pitch Black in Australia, operating alongside the IAF. Additionally, the RAF and Indian Navy’s P8I aircraft flew together for the first time during Exercise Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) in July 2024. The IAF also made its debut at the RAF’s multilateral Exercise Cobra Warrior in the UK in March 2023.
Exercise Tarang Shakti represents a significant step in deepening security and political ties between India and participating nations, demonstrating a collective commitment to international cooperation and regional security.