IAF Chief Air Chief Marshal AP Singh joked about US restrictions on F-35 jets on Saturday. During Exercise Tarang Shakti 2026 in Jodhpur, he said, “Your people don't even let us go near the aircraft.” The event brings many nations together to build better defence ties and share operational expertise.
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Indian Air Force (IAF) Chief Air Chief Marshal AP Singh on Saturday shared a light-hearted take on the US personnel’s tight guard over the F-35, joking that Indian officials were not even allowed near the aircraft despite reports of Washington wanting to sell it to India.
Speaking on the sidelines of Exercise Tarang Shakti (India's multinational air combat exercise) 2026 in Jodhpur, the exchange took place as Singh shared the stage with General Kevin Schneider, Commander of US Pacific Air Forces,
Responding to a question about whether the US had made an official offer to sell its fifth-generation F-35 fighter jets to India, Singh quipped, “Your people don't even let us go near the aircraft, and you are talking about selling it to us.”
Exercise Tarang Shakti 2026 is being conducted by the Indian Air Force (IAF) at Air Force Station Jodhpur from September 26 to October 12 under the theme "Power in Partnership".
Singh later clarified that his remark was a joke and should not be taken seriously, noting that there were things even India did not share with the US.
The exercise brings together air forces from Australia, the United States, the United Arab Emirates, France, Germany, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh for joint training, operational exchanges and enhanced interoperability. Several other friendly foreign countries are also participating as observers.
The multinational exercise provides an opportunity for participating forces to undertake complex air operations, exchange operational expertise and develop a better understanding of each other's capabilities and procedures.
The ongoing edition also includes professional interactions, subject matter expert exchanges and outreach activities aimed at strengthening defence partnerships and fostering mutual understanding among participating contingents.
Meanwhile, New Zealand Defence Adviser Commodore Andrew Dowling on Saturday said his country wants to be more involved in India's multinational air combat exercise Tarang Shakti, highlighting the growing momentum in bilateral defence ties and identifying maritime cooperation as a key area for further engagement.