Jodhpur:The Sri Lanka Air Force (SLAF) successfully participated in the second edition of the multinational air exercise Tarang Shakti 2026, which concluded on 12 October 2026 at Air Force Station Jodhpur, India. This exercise brought together air forces from seven countries, offering a platform to strengthen operational cooperation, enhance interoperability, and foster professional relationships among the participating nations.
According to Ministry of Defence – Sri Lanka, the SLAF contributed to the exercise with a Beechcraft King Air 360ER, showcasing its commitment to international defense cooperation and engagement in multinational air operations. The exercise provided SLAF personnel with the chance to interact with international counterparts, exchange operational knowledge, and gain exposure to varied operational practices and procedures.
The SLAF contingent included Wing Commander PGGK Bowatte as Captain Pilot, Wing Commander DMTSB Kehelwarawe as Co-pilot, Squadron Leader RHSH Rathnayaka as Navigator and Imprest Holder, Flight Sergeant Iroshan WAI as Ground Engineer I, Sergeant Herath HMDL as Ground Engineer II, and Corporal Dissanayake ML as Ground Engineer III.
Tarang Shakti 2026, held from 26 September to 12 October 2026, operated under the theme ‘Power in Partnership’ and involved air forces from Australia, Bangladesh, France, Germany, Sri Lanka, the United Arab Emirates, and the United States. The exercise facilitated professional interaction, knowledge-sharing, and familiarization with different operational capabilities, tactics, and procedures.
This multinational engagement provided an opportunity for personnel to enhance coordination between air and ground crews, exchange technical expertise, and develop a broader understanding of the capabilities and operational practices of partner air forces. Such engagements are crucial for enhancing professional competencies and fostering mutual trust among the participating nations.
The involvement of the SLAF in Tarang Shakti 2026 underscores its ongoing commitment to expanding international military cooperation, enhancing operational readiness, and strengthening professional relationships with partner air forces. The experience and knowledge gained from this exercise are expected to contribute positively to the continued development of SLAF operational capabilities and its role in regional and international defense cooperation.