Australia Joins India for Exercise Tarang Shakti in Jodhpur
The Royal Australian Air Force has made its first deployment of combat aircraft to India to participate in Exercise Tarang Shakti 24. This event is being held at Air Force Station Jodhpur from August 30 to September 13.
Participating Nations
Australia, Greece, Sri Lanka, UAE, Japan, Singapore, and the United States are among the countries participating in this exercise. A total of 11 nations are participating, with 18 observer nations attending.
Australian Contribution
Australia has sent three EA-18G Growler aircraft from No 6 Squadron and up to 120 personnel. Air Marshal Stephen Chappell, Chief of Air Force, highlighted the importance of this exercise for regional security and international cooperation.
“India is a top-tier security partner for Australia, and through the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between Australia and India, the Government is continuing to prioritize practical and tangible cooperation that directly contributes to Indo-Pacific stability,” said Air Marshal Chappell.
Exercise Benefits
Chappell also mentioned that the exercise will help aviators develop interoperability with foreign militaries and foster international relations. “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,” he added.
Previous Cooperation
Australia and India have increased air defense cooperation in recent years, including hosting Indian Air Force Flankers at Exercise Pitch Black in 2018, 2022, and 2024. The first phase of Exercise Tarang Shakti concluded in Tamil Nadu in August, involving the air forces of Germany, France, Spain, and the UK.
Doubts Revealed
Exercise Tarang Shakti -: Exercise Tarang Shakti is a military training event where different countries’ air forces practice together to improve their skills and teamwork.
Royal Australian Air Force -: The Royal Australian Air Force is the air force of Australia, responsible for defending the country from threats in the sky.
combat aircraft -: Combat aircraft are planes used by the military to fight in wars or protect a country from attacks.
Air Force Station Jodhpur -: Air Force Station Jodhpur is a place in India where the Indian Air Force operates and trains its pilots and aircraft.
Air Marshal Stephen Chappell -: Air Marshal Stephen Chappell is a high-ranking officer in the Royal Australian Air Force, similar to a very important boss.
regional security -: Regional security means keeping a specific area, like a group of nearby countries, safe from dangers or threats.
interoperability -: Interoperability is the ability of different countries’ military forces to work well together, using their equipment and skills in harmony.
observer nations -: Observer nations are countries that watch the exercise but do not actively participate in the training.
Tamil Nadu -: Tamil Nadu is a state in the southern part of India.