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F-35 Stealth Jets in Tarang Shakti, IAF Air Drills & Future Air CombatThe Indian Air Force is hosting the multinational air exercise Tarang Shakti in Rajasthan, bringing together air forces from Australia, the United States, the United Arab Emirates, France, Germany, Sri Lanka, and Bangladesh, alongside over 30 observer nations. For the first time, US fifth-generation F-35A Lightning II stealth fighters are participating in tactical missions from an Indian base. The IAF has fielded frontline combat assets including Rafale, Su-30MKI, Mirage 2000, Jaguar, Tejas, and MiG-29 fighters. Military aviation experts evaluate the strategic and tactical implications of exercising alongside stealth platforms, noting how radar cross-sections, integrated air defences, and multi-domain operations impact modern warfare. The discussion examines challenges surrounding potential aircraft acquisitions, including end-use monitoring and supply conditionalities, while stressing India's focus on developing the indigenous Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft. Experts also highlight evolving battlefield lessons from global conflicts, where manned-unmanned teaming, combat drones, and electronic warfare operate alongside manned fighter jets.