BILATERAL COMBAT EXERCISE
'Strengthening coordination, readiness': US embassy hails F-35 debut at Tarang Shakti 2026 in India
The second edition of multinational air exercise Tarang Shakti 2026 is underway in Jodhpur, featuring advanced fighter jets like the US F-35A. Running until October 12, the drill promotes interoperability, joint training, and strategic defence cooperation among participating global air forces.
F-35s, Rafales and F-16s descend on Jodhpur as 40+ countries join India’s Tarang Shakti
Kicking off its second edition, the multinational air exercise 'Tarang Shakti' has commenced in Jodhpur, with over 40 countries, including France, the UAE, and Australia, marking a significant show of global military unity. From September 26 to October 12, India will demonstrate its Rafale and Sukhoi-30 fighter jets, building on the momentum from a previous tactical air combat exercise held nearby.
'Looking forward to seeing US, Indian troops train side by side': Sergio Gor touches down at Mahajan Range for Yudh Abhyas 2026
US Ambassador Sergio Gor visited the Mahajan Field Firing Range in Rajasthan for Exercise Yudh Abhyas 2026. This exercise involves joint drills between Indian and US Army troops focused on operational knowledge exchange. Troops are training in diverse terrains, enhancing interoperability and battlefield coordination. The exercise also features integrated drills with Apache attack helicopters, emphasizing mission planning and operational readiness.
India's AH-64E Apache attack helicopters join US troops in Exercise Yudh Abhyas 2026
Exercise Yudh Abhyas 2026 features integrated operational drills with Indian Army AH-64E Apache attack helicopters and US Army forces. Training focuses on joint mission planning, battlefield coordination, and combined-arms employment across diverse terrains. The exercise enhances interoperability and mutual understanding between the two armies while improving communication and coordination during combat. Approximately 600 personnel from both sides are participating in this bilateral exercise.
US F-35 stealth fighters to join IAF’s Tarang Shakti exercise in India for first time
The Tarang Shakti 2026 exercise in India will feature six US F-35 stealth fighter jets, a landmark event as they engage in their first multinational combat exercise with the Indian Air Force. Approximately 40 countries will be involved as participants or observers, showcasing various high-tech aircraft. Meanwhile, the Indian Air Force remains focused on resolving delays related to the Tejas Mk1A fighter jet deliveries.
US F-35 jets likely to join India’s Tarang Shakti air exercise in Jodhpur
India’s second edition of Tarang Shakti, its premier multinational air exercise, will be held at Jodhpur’s Air Force Station from September 26 to October 12. The US Air Force’s fifth-generation F-35 fighter is likely to participate, which would mark its debut in Tarang Shakti, though the IAF has not officially confirmed the aircraft’s participation. The exercise will bring multiple foreign air forces together for joint tactical manoeuvres, with India’s frontline platforms also expected to take part.
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India, Japan Air Force Chiefs fly the Tejas during Exercise 'Veer Guardian-2026' in Jodhpur
Indian Air Chief Marshal Amar Preet Singh and Japan Air Self-Defence Force Chief of Staff General Takehiro Morita flew Tejas aircraft from Air Force Station Jodhpur during Exercise Veer Guardian-2026 on Sunday. The bilateral drill features frontline fighter aircraft from both countries, including Tejas, Su-30MKI and Rafale jets from India and F-2A fighters from Japan, with the exercise aimed at strengthening interoperability and defence cooperation.

India, Japan air chiefs attend 'Exercise Veer Guardian-2026' at Jodhpur Air Force Station
Air Chief Marshal Amar Preet Singh and JASDF Chief of Staff General Takehiro Morita visited Jodhpur's Air Force Station on Sunday to witness the ongoing Veer Guardian-2026 drills. India fields Tejas, Su-30MKI and Rafale jets, while Japan brings F-2As, marking its first fighter deployment to India. Running through September 22, the exercise aims to boost interoperability and deepen Indo-Japan defence ties.

Japan Air Force chief flies LCA Tejas during Veer Guardian 2026, calls it symbol of India’s technological innovation
Japan Air Self-Defence Force (JASDF) Chief General Takehiro Morita on Sunday described India's indigenous Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas as a symbol of the country's technological innovation and the 'Make in India' initiative after flying the fighter aircraft during the ongoing Indo-Japan bilateral air exercise 'Veer Guardian-2026'.

Apatsu Mitram: IAF Chief hails deepening India-Japan defence ties as Japanese Fighters fly from Indian soil in Ex 'Veer Guardian-2026'
"There is a Sanskrit expression which says 'Apatsu Mitram'-a friend in time of need. I think the spirit reflected in the relationship between the Indian Air Force and Koku-Jieitai [JASDF] is exactly the same," Singh said. "It is a partnership built on mutual respect, professional trust, and shared commitment to peace and stability."

India-US joint military exercise 'Yudh Abhyas' gets underway
The Yudh Abhyas military exercises have officially begun, bringing together the Indian and US armies. These joint operations aim to improve interoperability and tackle emerging military challenges. Troops will concentrate on infantry-led maneuvers in mountainous and semi-mountainous areas. The integration of technology, such as drones and autonomous systems, will play a crucial role, further solidifying the defense partnership between the nations.

Rajnath Singh hails India-Japan defence ties as Japanese fighter jets arrive for Exercise Veer Guardian
Japan's fighter jets have touched down in Jodhpur to participate in Exercise Veer Guardian 2026 for a joint air defense drill designed to bolster cooperation between the two nations. This exercise will see the deployment of top-notch aircraft, including Tejas, Su-30 MKI, and Rafale, sharpening their combat capabilities and enhancing interoperability. The drills are set to conclude on September 22, 2026, marking a new era of defense collaboration.

India's LCA Tejas, Su-30 MKI, Rafale to take part in bilateral air exercise with Japan in Jodhpur
India and Japan are set to engage in the bilateral air exercise 'Veer Guardian' to be held in Jodhpur from September 9 to 22. The Indian Air Force will showcase its Tejas, Su-30 MKI, and Rafale jets while the Japan Air Self Defence Force contributes its F-2A fighter aircraft. This collaboration promotes enhanced tactical skills and unity between the two nations' air forces.

India and US gear up for upcoming 2026 edition of joint military exercise 'Yudh Abhyas"
The 22nd edition of the Yudh Abhyas military exercise involving India and the United States is set to commence soon. This annual event serves as a testament to the enduring defense ties between the two countries. With a rich operational background spanning nearly three decades, previous exercises have tackled various terrains and intricate military maneuvers. Yudh Abhyas stands as a fundamental element of India-US military collaboration and interoperability.

Uzbekistan backs India's permanent UNSC bid; both agree to set up FM-led mechanism, strengthen counter-terror cooperation
Uzbekistan supports India's permanent UNSC membership bid and will establish a Foreign Ministers-led oversight mechanism. Both nations condemned terrorism and agreed to enhance counter-terrorism cooperation through joint working groups. They also committed to strengthening coordination at international forums for Global South interests.

Trump's North Korea gambit tests US ties with Asian partners, including India
Trump’s outreach to North Korea is unsettling US allies across Asia, with Japan, Taiwan and India reassessing Washington’s security commitments. His decision to cut military exercises with South Korea, hold up Taiwan arms sales and pressure allies on defence spending has deepened concerns over his transactional approach and regional strategy.

Why Pakistan is boosting defence ties with a nation known for its pirates
Pakistan is expanding its defense engagement through a new security pact with Somalia. This agreement covers counter-terrorism, military training, and capacity building efforts. Days later, Pakistan joined Saudi Arabia and Turkey in a Mecca Joint Defence Agreement. This pact commits members to mutual defense and military coordination. These developments highlight Pakistan's use of military cooperation for regional diplomacy.

India-Thailand joint military exercise 'Maitree' to be held from August 18-31
India and Thailand are conducting Exercise Maitree from August 18 to August 31. This joint military exercise will enhance combined capabilities in counter-insurgency operations. Troops from the Indian Army and Royal Thai Army will participate in this event. The exercise focuses on operations in jungle and semi-urban environments.

India, Malaysia commence bilateral exercise Udara Shakti 2026 at Subang Air Base
The Indian Air Force and Royal Malaysian Air Force are conducting Exercise Udara Shakti 2026. Air warriors from both nations are engaged in joint field training and expert exchanges. This exercise focuses on operational learning and enhancing interoperability between the forces. Personnel will gain familiarity with each other's air operation procedures. Meanwhile, Exercise Pitch Black will involve twenty nations in northern Australia.

Indian and Australian Navies discuss enhancing operational interoperability, capability-building cooperation
The Indian and Australian navies held discussions in Sydney during the 17th Navy-to-Navy Staff Talks from August 11-12 to boost maritime cooperation and interoperability. This follows the Indian Air Force's participation alongside 21 nations in Exercise Pitch Black 26 and PM Narendra Modi's two-day visit to Australia in July.

IAF's Su-30MKI fighter jets to take part in bilateral air exercise in France
Indian Air Force Su-30MKI jets will join French fighters for exercise Garuda 25 in France. The exercise, from November 16 to 27, will involve complex simulated air combat. This event aims to enhance interoperability and share operational knowledge between the two air forces. The Indian contingent arrived earlier for preparations. This collaboration strengthens mutual understanding in air operations.

West Bengal: IAF, Singapore Air Force participate in joint military exercise
India and Singapore's Air Forces have started the 12th Joint Military Training exercise at Air Force Station Kalaikunda, West Bengal. Running from November 13 to 21, 2024, this exercise focuses on enhancing interoperability and combat readiness through intense air combat simulations and joint mission planning. Personnel will also engage in sports and cultural activities.

Indian, Egyptian armies begin 11-day exercise
The Indian contingent comprised 25 personnel from the Parachute Regiment (special forces) at the second edition of the India-Egypt exercise 'Cyclone'. The first edition of the special forces exercise was conducted last year in India.

India, Japan to hold maiden bilateral air exercise
India and Japan agreed to step up bilateral defence cooperation and engage in more military exercises, including holding of the first joint fighter jet drills, during the second '2+2 Foreign and Defence Ministerial' dialogue in Tokyo in September. The IAF said the upcoming exercise will be another step in deepening strategic ties and closer defence cooperation between the two countries.

India, France air exercise in Jodhpur
The French Air and Space Force (FASF) has participated in the exercise with four Rafale fighter jets, one A-330 Multi Role Tanker Transport (MRTT) aircraft and a contingent of 220 personnel, the officials said.

IAF to get Rafale fighter jets in September, flight to India next May
The fighters will be flown by Indian pilots in France for 1,500 hours as part of the testing process.

India, US plan to upgrade their already intensive military combat exercises
India, of course, is willing to further tighten the strategic clinch with the US, which has already bagged Indian defence contracts+ worth $15 billion just since 2007.

Naval chief heads for Bangladesh to boost defence cooperation
Bangladesh, the current "chair" of IONS, is conducting this first-ever IMMSAREX operational exercise under its charter.

Lok Sabha polls 2014: All eyes on new government to boost military ties
The armed forces have chalked out a staggering round of combat exercises, professional exchanges and training deployments with different countries this year.
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