"Same procedures here in India as back home": European Air Chiefs praise seamless integration at Tarang Shakti
Military chiefs from France and Germany praise the seamless integration and identical combat procedures at Exercise Tarang Shakti in Jodhpur.
Military leaders from Europe have expressed astonishment at the seamless operational synergy displayed during India's multinational Exercise Tarang Shakti. Flying over the desert skies of Jodhpur, air chiefs from major European powers noted that the combat procedures and mission setups in India felt identical to those used in European airspace.
"No Difference From Home": German Air Force Commander
The high-level multinational drill, held at the Air Force Station Jodhpur, has demonstrated a level of interoperability that has left international observers impressed. Lieutenant General Günter Katz, Commander of the German Air Force Forces Command, highlighted that the transition to India's unique terrain caused no operational friction for his pilots.
Speaking at a joint press conference, Katz shared insights from his recent discussions with his aircrew. "I just talked to my air crew two hours ago, and I asked them the same question. So here's the original answer: they said there's no difference," Katz stated. "It's the same setup, the same flow, the same procedures here in India as we're doing back home."
French Military Chiefs Highlight Bilateral Foundations
The sentiment was echoed by General Stéphane Groen, Inspector General of the French Armed Forces. He attributed the smooth execution of complex multi-nation combat missions to the deep-rooted bilateral ties and routine joint exercises that serve as the bedrock for these larger drills.
General Groen revealed that he personally queried the Rafale squadron commander regarding the experience. "I asked exactly the same question... 'How did you find the exercise? Did you find any difference from Europe?' And he told me no," Groen remarked. He emphasized that the ability to conduct multinational exercises so effectively is built upon a strong foundation of bilateral relations with all participating nations.
Global Interest in Operation Sindoor
Beyond the tactical flying, Exercise Tarang Shakti has become a platform for sharing critical combat experiences. Exercise Director Air Vice Marshal Raj Thakur noted that there was significant interest among participating nations regarding Operation Sindoor, a landmark operation conducted by the Indian Air Force.
During subject matter expert exchanges, Indian officials briefed international partners on the details and lessons learned from the operation. "Operation Sindoor was one of the remarkable operations carried out by the Indian Air Force (IAF), and there was a lot of interest among the participating nations to know about it," Thakur said, adding that the briefing was very well received.
US Air Force Commander Joins the Dialogue
The strategic importance of the exchange was further underscored by US Air Force General Kevin Schneider, Commander of the Pacific Air Forces (PACAF). After spending a week hosted by Air Chief Marshal AP Singh and other IAF leaders, Schneider confirmed that Operation Sindoor was a key topic of discussion.
"I think, for all of us, we learn from each other, that we continue to evolve and adapt for the security situation that is evolving and adapting in front of us," Schneider remarked, highlighting the importance of mutual learning in an ever-changing global security landscape.
Exercise Tarang Shakti continues to bring together global partner air forces to undertake complex air defence, counter-air, and tactical transport operations, reinforcing the growing operational trust and integration among allied nations in the region.