Lanka Air Force joins multinational exercise in India

The Sri Lanka Air Force engaged in a multinational air exercise called Exercise Tarang Shakti 2026, held in India from September 26 to October 12. This operation, hosted by the Indian Air Force under the theme "Power in Partnership," brought together the air forces of the United States, France, and Germany, alongside Sri Lanka. Additionally, Australia, Bangladesh, and the United Arab Emirates participated in the exercise, which took place at Air Force Station Jodhpur, India.

The primary goal of Exercise Tarang Shakti 2026 was to improve operational cooperation and interoperability among the participating air forces. The exercise provided an opportunity for the involved forces to share tactics and operational experience. According to the Sri Lanka Air Force, the event encompassed training in planning and executing joint multinational combat operations, including counter-air, air defense, reconnaissance, and air-to-air refueling missions.

Exercise Tarang Shakti 2026 attracted 32 countries as observers, highlighting the global interest in enhancing military collaboration. This participation is part of Sri Lanka's broader trend of expanding military cooperation with foreign countries. In recent times, India and Sri Lanka exchanged 240 military personnel as part of a tri-service exchange program.

Furthermore, Sri Lankan military personnel took part in a counter-terrorism exercise with Russia, while a senior US Army Pacific official visited Sri Lanka to discuss potential joint training opportunities.