During the Distinguished Visitors’ Day event, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh commended the multinational exercise ‘Tarang Shakti’ for promoting cooperation, coordination, and trust among partner nations. He also highlighted how the exercise showcases India’s dedication to bolstering defence relationships and fostering a sense of collective security.
Singh stated that through Tarang Shakti, India has not only strengthened its defense partnerships with allied nations but also exhibited solidarity in times of crisis. This exercise reflects our commitment to mutual coexistence and collaboration.
He observed the valuable knowledge gained when soldiers from varied backgrounds and experiences come together in complex and large-scale exercises. “The combination of different work cultures, air combat experiences, and principles of war-fighting leads to a rich exchange of skills and knowledge,” he elaborated.
Witnessed an aerial display during the Tarang Shakti Exercise in Jodhpur today. The Exercise will strengthen cooperation, coordination and trust among the friendly countries. Tarang Shakti underscores the growing stature of the Indian Armed Forces. ⁰
Today’s landmark event is an… pic.twitter.com/P2Yil2FPL5— Rajnath Singh (@rajnathsingh) September 12, 2024
The Defence Minister emphasized the remarkable changes in the Indian Air Force since independence. From only six squadrons and limited resources, it has now acquired some of the most advanced aircraft and next-generation equipment globally. “Our progress and capability are on full display with the Indian Air Force’s possession of top-of-the-line modern aircraft,” he declared.
Singh highlighted the latest developments in India’s defence industry, specifically mentioning the joint efforts of Hindustan Aeronautics Limited and Safran Helicopter Engines. He emphasized the country’s transformation from a pure arms importer to a notable exporter, with defence products now being supplied to approximately 90 nations.
Singh acknowledged the significant progress of our domestic defence sector in indigenisation efforts, such as the production of Light Combat Aircraft and various advanced technologies including sensors, radars, and electronic warfare systems.
In attendance at the event were top military officials including CDS Gen Anil Chauhan, CAS Air Chief Marshal VR Chaudhari, COAS Gen Upendra Dwivedi, and CNS Adm Dinesh K Tripathi. Other high-ranking military leaders from allied nations were also present. The highlights of the event featured impressive displays by the Agniveer Vayu AWDT and demonstrations by various teams, such as the LCA Tejas, LCH Prachand, Sarang, and SKAT.
The occasion also included involvement from 68 industry representatives presenting advanced defence technologies. Along with the contributions of seven participating nations and twenty-one observer countries, the second phase of the exercise, IDAX-24, emphasized the significance of international cooperation, communication, and knowledge sharing, further bolstering India’s stance in the global defence and aerospace industries.