Chennai: The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) highlighted its array of made-in-India weapon systems during the ongoing Tarang Shakti exercise, organized by the Indian Air Force (IAF) at Sulur, Tamil Nadu. This exercise, which marks a significant demonstration of India's indigenous defense capabilities, provides DRDO with an opportunity to showcase its advancements in domestic weaponry.

DRDO Chairperson Samir V Kamat emphasized the importance of the Tarang Shakti exercise, stating that it is a prime example of the IAF's commitment to utilizing domestically produced defense equipment. "The display of these products gives confidence to all our countrymen that the Air Force is fully capable of safeguarding the nation when the need arises," he said. Discussing the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) project, Kamat mentioned that AMCA is a 5.5-generation stealth fighter jet currently under development by DRDO. "We have just initiated the development project, and the design is now complete. We aim to finish our development trials by 2034, with induction planned for 2035," he explained, adding that the completion of this project will be a significant step towards achieving self-reliance in defense.

Kamat also highlighted India's progress in developing world-class defense technology, noting that very few countries operate stealth aircraft. "India will soon be among the few nations with indigenous stealth aircraft, and this will be a proud moment for the country when development is complete," he added. The Tarang Shakti exercise also witnessed international participation, with Lieutenant General Ingo Gerhartz, Chief of the German Air Force, expressing his appreciation for the event. "It was a great experience flying together with the Indian Air Force and alongside the Spanish and French Air Forces," Gerhartz said, praising the hospitality of India and the professionalism of the IAF.

Brigadier General Guillaume Thomas of the French Air Force also commended the exercise, stating, "It was a brilliant exercise organized by the Indian Air Force. We were pleased to fly alongside Indian aircraft such as Tejas, and our pilots had the opportunity to experience flying onboard the Tejas." Earlier in the exercise, the indigenously developed LCA Tejas, piloted by Air Marshal AP Singh, successfully intercepted German, French, and Spanish contingents participating in the war games. The Royal Air Force is also taking part in these air exercises, further strengthening strategic relationships between India and its international partners.

The Tarang Shakti 2024 exercise, which began on August 6, marks India's first-ever multinational air exercise on its soil. The first phase is taking place in Sulur, Tamil Nadu, from August 6 to 14, with the second phase scheduled in Jodhpur, Rajasthan, from August 29 to September 14. The exercise involves IAF's LCA Tejas, Mirage 2000, and Rafale, aiming to bolster strategic ties with friendly nations from around the world.

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