Indian Air Force fighter jets in action on Day 2 during first phase of India's multilateral 'Tarang Shakti' at Sulur in Coimbatore. Photo Credit: ANI

on September 14, 2024

Bangladesh opts out of multinational air exercise ‘Tarang Shakti’ hosted by India

By Diplomatic Correspondent

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 was began on August 30 in Jodhpur, India Today reported.

The decision marks a significant change in Bangladesh's participation, as the country was initially slated to bring its C-130 aircraft to the exercise. However, officials from the Bangladesh Air Force are part of the Exercise as observers.

Filling the gap left by Bangladesh, Sri Lanka has stepped in to participate with its own C-130 aircraft, marking its involvement in this phase of the exercise.

The second phase of Tarang Shakti, the largest multinational air exercise hosted by India, is being held from August 30 to September 14, with the daredevil stunts of fighter jets from Australia, US, Greece, Bangladesh, Singapore, and the UAE highlighting the event.

The air exercise marks Greece’s first-ever participation in a military exercise in India, following the strengthening of military relations between the two countries in April 2023.

India is showcasing a range of its advanced military assets, including the LCA Tejas, Su-30 MKIs, and Rafales, during the exercise. With over 18 nations participating and around 67 fighter jets involved, Tarang Shakti 2024 highlights India's growing role as a key player in fostering multinational defense cooperation and enhancing interoperability among the participating air forces.

Air forces from 10 countries are participating with their assets while others are a part of Tarang Shakti as observers. Australia's F-18, Sri Lanka’s C-130, Greece's F-16, and the USA's A-10 and F-16 will be showcasing their capabilities in Indian skies close to the western border.

The Indian Air Force is participating with Rafale, Sukhoi, Mirage, Jaguar, Tejas, MiG-29, Prachand and Rudra attack helicopters, ALH Dhruv, C-130, IL-78, and AWACS assets.

The Air Force Chiefs of the participating countries were also present during the exercise. The first phase of Tarang Shakti was conducted in Tamil Nadu’s Sulur during August 6 to 14 with France, Germany, Spain, and UK participating in the air exercise.

This phase of Tarang Shakti, hosted by the Indian Air Force, is focus on enhancing interoperability and strengthening defense ties among the participating nations, with operations scheduled to take place near India's western border. The exercise remains a crucial platform for fostering multinational cooperation in the region.