Defence Minister Highlights India's Defence Readiness at 'Tarang Shakti'

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh emphasized India's commitment to strengthening defence ties and self-reliance in defence manufacturing during the Multinational Exercise 'Tarang Shakti' in Jodhpur. The event also showcased India's cutting-edge defence innovations and international collaboration through the International Defence and Aerospace Expo (IDAX-24).

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Thursday spotlighted the Multinational Exercise 'Tarang Shakti' as a strategic endeavor to fortify cooperation, coordination, and trust with partner nations. Addressing the gathering at the Distinguished Visitors' Day event in the second phase of the exercise in Jodhpur, Singh reiterated India's vision of mutual coexistence and cooperation. He emphasized that India has bolstered its defence ties with partner countries, assuring them of support whenever required.

'When an exercise of such complexity and large magnitude takes place, soldiers with different work cultures, air combat experiences, and warfighting principles learn a lot from each other,' Singh noted. Highlighting the Indian Air Force's advancements, he celebrated its transformation from having just six squadrons at independence to being equipped with the most modern aircraft and next-generation equipment. Singh acknowledged the recent collaboration between Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) and France's Safran Helicopter Engines as a testament to India's progress from an arms importer to an exporter serving 90 countries.

Minister of Culture and Tourism Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, along with top military officials from India and other nations, attended the event. Showcasing India's defence prowess, displays included the Agniveervayu Women Air Warrior Drill Team and demonstrations by the LCA Tejas, LCH Prachand, Sarang, and SKAT teams. Later, Singh inaugurated the International Defence and Aerospace Expo (IDAX-24), a platform for startups, MSMEs, and major aeronautical companies to present cutting-edge technologies, symbolizing international collaboration and India's commitment to indigenous defence manufacturing and innovation.

(With inputs from agencies.)