📷 Image: Wikimedia Commons / Ginevrajocosa88
Defence
IAF conducts Tarang Shakti drill with US F-35 jets in Rajasthan
✍️ indiatoday.in
🗓 04 Oct 2026, 05:02 AM
👁 7
The Indian Air Force launched the Tarang Shakti exercise in Rajasthan, integrating US‑made F‑35 stealth fighters to evaluate new tactics and air‑power capabilities.
The Indian Air Force (IAF) has commenced the Tarang Shakti exercise in the desert region of Rajasthan, aiming to hone its operational tactics and assess the integration of advanced air‑power assets.
As part of the drill, a squadron of US‑manufactured F‑35 stealth fighter jets took part alongside Indian aircraft, providing a platform for joint manoeuvres and live‑fire simulations.
The presence of the fifth‑generation F‑35s allows Indian pilots to train on cutting‑edge stealth technology, sensor fusion and network‑centric warfare, elements that are central to the IAF's modernization roadmap.
While detailed results of the exercise remain classified, officials indicated that the drill will inform future procurement decisions and enhance interoperability with allied forces.
The Tarang Shakti exercise underscores India's focus on strengthening its aerial deterrence posture amid evolving regional security dynamics.
As part of the drill, a squadron of US‑manufactured F‑35 stealth fighter jets took part alongside Indian aircraft, providing a platform for joint manoeuvres and live‑fire simulations.
The presence of the fifth‑generation F‑35s allows Indian pilots to train on cutting‑edge stealth technology, sensor fusion and network‑centric warfare, elements that are central to the IAF's modernization roadmap.
While detailed results of the exercise remain classified, officials indicated that the drill will inform future procurement decisions and enhance interoperability with allied forces.
The Tarang Shakti exercise underscores India's focus on strengthening its aerial deterrence posture amid evolving regional security dynamics.