Exercise Tarang Shakti 2024 Kicks Off in Tamil Nadu

The multinational Exercise Tarang Shakti 2024 began in Sulur, Tamil Nadu. Air Chief Marshal VR Chaudhari lauded participants, highlighting the exercise's complexity and success. German officials expressed enthusiasm. The event showcases India's defense capabilities, with phases in Sulur and Jodhpur.

Exercise Tarang Shakti 2024 commenced on Tuesday in Tamil Nadu's Sulur, marking a significant milestone for India. Air Chief Marshal VR Chaudhari applauded the scale and complexity of the event, noting the Air Force and all participants have excelled in meeting the challenges. "It is a huge feather in our cap that we have been able to organise an exercise of such a huge scale in India," Chaudhari said, adding that this is the first time India is conducting a multilateral exercise of this magnitude.

Discussing Sulur's selection as the venue, Chaudhari remarked on the exercise's intricacy. "We have six different types of IAF aircraft flying alongside two Eurofighter Typhoons and Rafale jets from visiting countries. We've also created an electronic warfare environment simulating various threats, operating without a common data link with the visiting Air Forces, which makes it a complex exercise," he explained. The focus is on large force engagements. Participating aircraft include a German A-400M transport aircraft stationed at Palam.

German Ambassador to India Dr. Philipp Ackermann expressed delight at partnering with the Indian Air Force. "This is the first time the German Air Force flies with the IAF in India. Our growing strategic military partnership with India is showcased in this exercise," he stated. German Air Force Chief Lt. Gen. Ingo Gerhartz also shared his excitement about participating in the exercise. The event, held in Sulur and Jodhpur, aims to demonstrate India's defense capabilities and enhance military coordination among participants.

(With inputs from agencies.)