India and Germany Take Flight in Historic Tarang Shakti Air Exercise

Pictures Source: Indian Air Force/X

On August 6, 2024, the Indian Air Force (IAF) launched its first-ever multinational air exercise, Tarang Shakti, at Sulur Air Force Base (AFB) in Tamil Nadu. This historic event marks a significant milestone in international military cooperation. 

Two Phases of International Collaboration

The exercise is divided into two phases. The first phase, running from August 6 to 14 at Sulur AFB, is followed by the second phase, which will take place in Jodhpur, Rajasthan, from August 29 to September 14. This extensive exercise will see participation from air forces around the globe, including Germany, France, Spain, and the United Kingdom. 

German Air Force Makes Historic Debut 

For the first time, the German Air Force is participating in an air exercise on Indian soil. The exercise was inaugurated by IAF Chief Air Chief Marshal V R Chaudhari and German Air Force Chief Lieutenant General Ingo Gerhartz. 

Air Chief Marshal Chaudhari remarked, “It is a huge feather in our cap that we have been able to organise an exercise of such a huge scale in India. We have been carrying out bilateral exercises with many countries over the years, and this is the first time we are doing a multilateral exercise of this scale.” 

Lieutenant General Ingo Gerhartz echoed this sentiment, emphasizing, “This is the first time that the German Air Force is exercising together with the Indian Air Force, and it is also the first time that it flies in India — a truly historic moment.” 

Diverse Participation and Objectives

Nearly 30 countries are involved in the exercise, with ten bringing their fighter aircraft. Notable participants include the RAF with six Eurofighter Typhoons, Germany with its Typhoons, France with Rafale jets, and Greece with F-16s. The exercise aims to enhance interoperability and share best practices among the participating nations. 

Defence Exposition and Strategic Goals

In conjunction with the exercise, an International Defence Aviation Exposition is showcasing India’s indigenous defense capabilities. Vice Chief of the Air Staff (VCAS) Air Marshal A P Singh outlined that the exercise is designed to strengthen strategic relationships and foster mutual understanding of air operations and combat scenarios. 

German Ambassador Dr. Philipp Ackermann highlighted the significance of the exercise, stating, “Tarang Shakti marks a historic moment as it deepens our security and political ties with India and the region.” 

Both Air Chief Marshal Chaudhari and Lieutenant General Gerhartz reassured that the exercise is not aimed at any specific nation but is intended to enhance operational capabilities and foster global partnerships. 

A New Era of Defense Cooperation

The exercise represents a major step forward in Indo-German defense relations and sets the stage for further collaborative efforts in an increasingly complex global security environment.