Turang Shakti 2.0 Brings Together 7 Nations for Joint Air Ops

The Indian Air Force’s Turang Shakti 2026 exercise has attracted a record‑high contingent of foreign air forces. Sixteen combat aircraft from the United States, Australia, Bangladesh, France, Germany, Sri Lanka and the United Arab Emirates will operate alongside Indian fighters in a series of joint missions.

The U.S. contribution consists of six F‑35 stealth fighters and two KC‑135 aerial refuelling tankers. France will send seven Rafales and a number of transport aircraft, while Germany contributes two A400M heavy lift planes. The UAE will field six F‑16s, and Australia and Bangladesh each provide a C‑130 tactical transport.

The drill is designed around a bespoke interoperability construct, selecting participant nations based on the capabilities they bring to the table. This framework ensures that each nation’s aircraft can communicate, share data and execute coordinated attacks, replicating real‑world coalition operations.

In addition to the combat sorties, the exercise will include two air‑to‑air refuelling missions, three special‑forces aircraft, and a suite of early‑warning and control systems. The extensive scope of Turang Shakti 2.0 underscores India’s ambition to become a hub for multinational air power training.

The exercise will run from 26 September to 12 October, with the majority of flying taking place over the desert terrain surrounding Jodhpur, providing a realistic backdrop for high‑speed, high‑altitude engagements.