Australia conducts its first deployment of fighter jets to India for "Tarang Shakti" exercise.

The Royal Australian Air Force has conducted its first deployment of fighter jets to India to participate in the "Tarang Shakti" exercise, the Australian Department of Defense announced in a statement.
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EA-18G Growler made by boeing (Picture source: Royal Australian Army  )

The Royal Australian Air Force deployed its fighter jets to India during the Tarang Shakti exercise at Jodhpur Air Base from August 30 to September 13. Australia sent three EA-18G Growler aircraft and 120 personnel. The exercise includes 11 participating countries and 18 observer countries, highlighting international cooperation and collaboration on regional security.

The second phase of India's largest multilateral air exercise, "Exercise Tarang Shakti 24," is taking place at Jodhpur Air Base from August 30 to September 13. Australia, Greece, Sri Lanka, the United Arab Emirates, Japan, Singapore, and the United States are participating. Three EA-18G Growler aircraft from the 6th Squadron and up to 120 personnel have been sent by Australia.

The joint statement indicates that this is the first time India is hosting the Tarang Shakti exercise, with participation from 11 countries and 18 observer countries.

The Chief of the Air Force, Air Marshal Stephen Chappell, stated that Australia's participation in the Tarang Shakti exercise demonstrated its commitment to supporting regional partners and fostering international cooperation to address common security challenges. India is a leading security partner for Australia, and through the comprehensive strategic partnership between Australia and India, the government continues to prioritize practical and tangible cooperation that directly contributes to stability in the Indo-Pacific region.

He stated that Australia's participation in such an exercise showcased its advanced capabilities. The Air Chief Marshal mentioned that the exercise would offer aviators the opportunity to develop interoperability with foreign forces.

"Participation in international exercises such as Tarang Shakti 24 showcases our advanced capabilities, ensuring rapid response and adaptability to emerging threats and security challenges in the Indo-Pacific region," Chappell said. "The Tarang Shakti 24 exercise will provide our aviators with the opportunity to develop interoperability with foreign forces, develop a mutual understanding of tactical operations, and foster international relations," he added.

Australia and India have benefited from increased air defense cooperation in recent years, including hosting Indian Air Force Flankers during Exercise Pitch Black in 2018, 2022, and 2024, according to the Australian Department of Defense.

The Air Force also conducts a number of training and engagement activities with the Indian Navy's P-8I Neptune surveillance aircraft. Australia will continue to support India’s key role in the region by increasing the depth and complexity of our defense cooperation, the statement adds.

The first phase of the Tarang Shakti exercise was completed in Tamil Nadu in August. The first phase of India's largest multilateral air exercise, "Tarang Shakti," involved the air forces of Germany, France, Spain, and the United Kingdom.