New Delhi: In a last-minute decision, Bangladesh has opted not to deploy its C-130 aircraft for the second phase of the multinational air exercise, Tarang Shakti, which begins today in Jodhpur. Initially scheduled to participate with its C-130 aircraft, Bangladesh will now only be represented by its Air Force officials as observers. Filling the gap left by Bangladesh, Sri Lanka has stepped in with its own C-130 aircraft for this phase of the exercise.

The second phase of Tarang Shakti, the largest multinational air exercise hosted by India, runs from August 30 to September 14. This phase will showcase the capabilities of fighter jets from Australia, the US, Greece, Bangladesh, Singapore, and the UAE. Notably, this will be Greece's first participation in a military exercise in India, following the enhancement of military relations between the two countries in April 2023. India will present a range of advanced military assets during the exercise, including the LCA Tejas, Su-30 MKIs, and Rafales. With over 18 nations involved and around 67 fighter jets participating, Tarang Shakti 2024 underscores India's growing role in multinational defense cooperation and enhancing interoperability among allied air forces.

Participating air forces include Australia with its F-18, Sri Lanka with its C-130, Greece with its F-16, and the USA with its A-10 and F-16. India will contribute various assets, including Rafale, Sukhoi, Mirage, Jaguar, Tejas, MiG-29, Prachand and Rudra attack helicopters, ALH Dhruv, C-130, IL-78, and AWACS. The exercise will also feature the presence of Air Force Chiefs from the participating countries. The first phase of Tarang Shakti, held in Tamil Nadu's Sulur from August 6 to 14, saw participation from France, Germany, Spain, and the UK.

This second phase, hosted by the Indian Air Force, aims to enhance interoperability and strengthen defense ties among participating nations, with operations conducted near India's western border. Tarang Shakti remains a significant platform for promoting multinational cooperation in the region.

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