Jaisalmer: Indian Air Force will host its largest multinational air combat exercise, Tarang Shakti-2026, in the western desert region of Rajasthan near the international border with Pakistan from Sept 26 to Oct 12.More than 40 countries are expected to participate in the second edition of the exercise, which will bring together air forces from across the world for high-end tactical manoeuvres, joint operations and combat training.According to official IAF sources, a NOTAM has been issued ahead of the exercise, reserving extensive airspace over the Jaisalmer, Barmer, Phalodi and Jodhpur sectors for military flying. Airspace up to 40,000 feet over the four districts has been earmarked for the drills.Fighter aircraft taking part in the exercise will also operate from Pokhran Field Firing Range in Jaisalmer district, where they are expected to carry out bombing drills against simulated targets and participate in other air combat activities.The exercise will be held soon after the conclusion of the India-Japan bilateral air exercise, Veer Guardian-2026, at Air Force Station Jodhpur.Defence officials said IAF will deploy a wide range of frontline assets, including Rafale, Sukhoi-30 MKI, Mirage-2000, Jaguar, Tejas and MiG-29 fighter aircraft. Airborne Early Warning and Control aircraft, transport aircraft and air-to-air refuelling tankers will also be part of the exercise.Several countries, including the United States, France, Germany, Australia, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka and the UAE, will participate. Officials said aircraft such as the US F-35, French Rafale, UAE F-16 and Bangladesh C-130J will also take part.Eight major military powers will directly participate with advanced aircraft and fighter jets, while defence representatives and military officials from more than 30 countries are expected as observers.Air Force Station Jodhpur will serve as the main hub. The exercise will test rapid-response capabilities, air-to-air refuelling, precision bombing and complex multinational combat scenarios, while enhancing interoperability and tactical cooperation among friendly air forces.
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