What is Tarang Shakti? Know All About India's Biggest Upcoming Military Exercise

India will host its first multinational air exercise, Tarang Shakti-2024, marking an important step in the country's defense diplomacy and military cooperation. Scheduled for August and September 2024, this exercise aims to boost military collaboration and highlight India's advancing defense capabilities globally.

With invites sent to 51 countries, Indian Air Force Vice Chief Air Marshal AP Singh announced on Wednesday that the upcoming air exercise, dubbed "Tarang Shakti," will be the biggest international air exercise ever held in India.

Tarang Shakti-2024 is inspired by the U.S.-led Red Flag exercise, known for its realistic combat scenarios and extensive international participation. It aims to improve interoperability among air forces from different countries, enhancing collective security and operational effectiveness in modern warfare.

Tarang Shakti Military Exercise: An In-Depth Look

Here's a brief overview of all the details regarding Tarang Shakti 2024-

Phases and Locations: 

Tarang Shakti will occur in two stages. The first phase will be in Sulur, Tamil Nadu, from August 6 to 14, 2024. The second phase will be in Jodhpur, Rajasthan, from September 1 to 14, 2024. This structure allows for thorough participation across India's diverse terrains.

Participating Nations: 

Around 51 nations will participate in Tarang Shakti, with about 30 expected to be actively involved. Confirmed participants include major military nations like the United States, Australia, France, Germany, Japan, and the United Kingdom. The diverse participation underscores the exercise's importance in strengthening international defense ties.

Aircraft and Assets: 

The exercise will feature between 75 and 80 advanced military aircraft, including 40 from the Indian Air Force and 32 from other countries. Notable aircraft will include the Indian LCA Tejas and Prachand light combat helicopter, as well as the Rafale and Eurofighter Typhoon from participating nations. The Indian Navy will also contribute its MiG-29K planes.

Tarang Shakti Objectives

Enhancing Interoperability: The exercise aims to promote interoperability among the air forces of participating nations, enabling them to share best practices and improve operational coordination.

Showcasing Indigenous Capabilities: Tarang Shakti will highlight India's defense production capabilities, featuring platforms like the Tejas fighter, Prachand light combat helicopter, and Akash missile system. A concurrent defense expo will showcase contributions from various Indian defense companies, including major public sector undertakings and innovative startups.

Professional Exchange: The exercise will provide professional exchanges among air forces, providing a platform for learning and collaboration in modern aerial combat techniques.

With Tarang Shakti-2024, India's defense diplomacy will advance considerably. India aims to show its dedication to self-reliance in defense capabilities and to strengthen its position in international defense by hosting this major exercise. Future defense alliances will be built upon the beneficial contacts and cooperation that the event will foster amongst the participating countries.

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