NEW DELHI — The Indian Air Force (IAF) is set to gain significant operational advantages from Exercise Tarang Shakti 2026, a large‑scale multinational air drill that will see the debut of US F‑35 fighters on Indian soil. The exercise, announced on 25 September 2026, is part of India’s broader strategy to modernise its air power and strengthen ties with key partners in the Indo‑Pacific region.
F‑35s Make Their Indian Debut
The Defence News report dated 25 September 2026 highlighted that the exercise will feature the first deployment of US F‑35 fighters in a joint Indian multinational air exercise. The inclusion of the fifth‑generation stealth fighter is expected to provide the IAF with exposure to advanced avionics, sensor fusion and low‑observable flight profiles.
Interoperability and Tactical Readiness
Exercise Tarang Shakti 2026 is designed to test and refine joint operational concepts between the IAF and partner air forces. By flying in close formation with the F‑35s, Indian pilots will gain experience in coordinating with aircraft that have different communication and data‑link systems. The drill will also cover air‑to‑air and air‑to‑ground missions, allowing the IAF to practice integrated strike and surveillance operations.
Strategic Context
India’s decision to invite the F‑35 into a multinational exercise follows a series of recent moves to enhance its air defence posture. The IAF has been expanding its fleet of advanced fighters, including the Rafale and the indigenous HAL Tejas, and the exercise provides a platform to evaluate how these platforms can operate alongside the latest US technology.
Multinational Participation
While the Defence News article focuses on the US contribution, the Times of India video explainer notes that Exercise Tarang Shakti 2026 will involve multiple partner nations. The drill is expected to bring together air forces from the United States, Australia, and Japan, creating a diverse environment for testing interoperability protocols.
Training and Operational Benefits
According to the Times of India explainer, the exercise will allow the IAF to practice advanced air‑to‑air refuelling, electronic warfare, and joint mission planning. These capabilities are critical for maintaining air superiority in a complex security environment. The IAF will also use the exercise to assess the readiness of its ground support and logistics chains in a multinational context.
Future Implications
The inclusion of the F‑35 in a joint exercise signals a growing confidence in India’s ability to operate high‑tech aircraft alongside its own fleet. The experience gained is likely to inform future procurement decisions and joint operational doctrines. It also demonstrates India’s willingness to engage with advanced technology partners while maintaining a robust domestic defence industry.
