EXERCISE UDARA SHAKTI 2026

News: Indian Air Force (IAF) participated in Exercise Udara Shakti 2026 with the Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF) at Subang Airbase, Malaysia.

About

  • Bilateral air exercise between India and Malaysia.
  • Aims to enhance air combat capabilities, interoperability and tactical coordination.
  • IAF deployed 4 Rafale fighters and 2 C-17 Globemaster III aircraft.
  • RMAF participated with Su-30MKM, F/A-18D Hornets and A400M aircraft.

Key Activities

  • High-intensity combat sorties.
  • Dissimilar air combat training and fighter manoeuvres.
  • Air-to-air refuelling operations.
  • Exchange of expertise on training, mission planning and maintenance.

Significance

  • Strengthens India–Malaysia defence cooperation.
  • Supports India’s Act East Policy and Indo-Pacific strategy.
  • Enhances regional security and operational interoperability.