Australia’s First Aircraft Deployed In India For ‘Tarang Shakti’-II Military Exercise

The Royal Australian Air Force has deployed combat aircraft to India for the first time to participate in Exercise ‘Tarang Shakti,’ according to a statement from Australia’s Defence department. The second phase of India’s largest multilateral air exercise, ‘Exercise Tarang Shakti 24,’ is currently underway at Air Force Station Jodhpur from August 30 to September 13. Australia is joined by Greece, Sri Lanka, the UAE, Japan, Singapore, and the United States in this exercise.

Australia has sent three EA-18G Growler aircraft from No 6 Squadron, along with up to 120 personnel.

“This is the first time India has conducted Exercise Tarang Shakti, with 11 participating nations and 18 observer nations attending,” the statement highlighted.

Chief of Air Force, Air Marshal Stephen Chappell, emphasized that Australia’s involvement in Exercise Tarang Shakti underscores its dedication to regional partners and international cooperation in addressing shared security challenges.

“India is a top-tier security partner for Australia, and through the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between Australia and India, the Government is continuing to prioritise practical and tangible cooperation that directly contributes to Indo-Pacific stability,” Air Marshal Chappell stated.

He noted that Australia’s participation in such exercises highlights its advanced capabilities, providing aviators with opportunities to enhance interoperability with foreign forces.

“Participation in international exercises such as Tarang Shakti 24 showcases our advanced capabilities that ensure rapid response and adaptability to emerging threats and security challenges in the Indo-Pacific region,” Chappell said.

“Exercise Tarang Shakti 24 will provide our aviators with the opportunity to develop interoperability with foreign militaries, develop a mutual understanding of tactical operations, and foster international relations,” he added.

Australia and India have strengthened air defence cooperation in recent years, with India’s Air Force Flankers participating in Exercise Pitch Black in 2018, 2022, and 2024, according to the Australian Defence Department.

The Air Force also engages in various training and cooperative activities with Indian Navy P-8I Neptune surveillance aircraft.

Australia will continue to deepen its defence cooperation with India, recognizing India’s crucial role in the region, as stated in the release.

The first phase of Exercise Tarang Shakti, which involved the air forces of Germany, France, Spain, and the UK, concluded in Tamil Nadu in August.