Why in the News?

The Indian Air Force’s first multinational air exercise, Tarang Shakti-2024, will be held in August.
- It is inspired by the Red Flag exercise hosted by the US.

Tarang Shakti-2024

Phase One: Scheduled in southern India during the first two weeks of August.
Phase Two: To be held in the western sector from late August to mid-September.

Some countries will partake in both phases, facilitating comprehensive training scenarios, while others will engage in specific phases based on operational objectives.
Confirmed Participants:
- Australia, France, Germany, Japan, Spain, UAE, UK, USA, among others.

Hosted by USAF: The recently concluded Red Flag exercise at Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska, involved diverse international participation.
- IAF Deployment: Deployed eight Rafale fighters, supported by IL-78 mid-air refuellers and C-17 Globemaster aircraft.
- Combat Simulations: Included scenarios for air combat, with Red and Blue Forces simulating defensive and offensive roles respectively.

The exercise provides a platform to showcase advanced military technologies and capabilities, including fighter jets, transport aircraft, and aerial refuelling systems.
This enables participants to demonstrate their equipment’s effectiveness and interoperability in multinational settings.
It would enhance regional stability and promote collective security in the Indo-Pacific region.
It reinforces India’s role as a key partner in global security initiatives and strengthens diplomatic relations with participating countries.

[2024] Which of the following statements about the Exercise Mitra Shakti-2023 is/ are correct?

This was a joint military exercise between India and Bangladesh.
It commenced in Aundh (Pune).
Joint response during counter-terrorism operations was a goal of this operation.
Indian Air Force was a part of this exercise.

Select the answer using the code given below:

(a) 1, 2 and 3

(b) 1 and 4

(d) 2, 3 and 4