Jodhpur: French Air and Space Force Vice-Chief Lt Gen Dominique Tardif has praised India’s indigenous Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas, comparing aspects of the aircraft to the Mirage 2000 and highlighting the operational synergy between Indian and French fighters during Tarang Shakti 2026 in Jodhpur.
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Tardif is in India for the IAF’s second multinational air combat exercise, which has brought together aircraft including India’s Tejas, Rafale, Su-30MKI and Mirage 2000, alongside foreign platforms including the US F-35, French Rafale and other combat aircraft. The exercise is focused on operational learning, interoperability and sharing of combat experience among participating air forces.
The French general’s comments underline the value of operating Tejas alongside Rafale during complex multinational missions. French and Indian crews are using the exercise to exchange operational practices and learn from each other’s procedures, with French officials also noting the benefits of Indian aircraft operating alongside the French-built Rafale.
The comparison with the Mirage 2000 carries particular significance for the IAF. India has operated the French fighter for decades, with the aircraft becoming a key part of the force’s combat fleet. The IAF’s experience with French combat aviation has now expanded to the Rafale, while Tejas represents the parallel development of an indigenous fighter ecosystem.
The engagement comes as India and France continue to deepen defence cooperation across combat aviation, naval systems, missiles, engines and aerospace manufacturing. India operates 36 Rafales acquired from France, while discussions around additional Rafale procurement include a significant Make in India component and greater indigenous content.
For the IAF, Tarang Shakti provides an opportunity to place its indigenous fighter alongside some of the world's most advanced combat aircraft and expose pilots, engineers and planners to different operational concepts. For France, the exercise provides a platform to deepen interoperability with a key strategic partner while gaining insights from the Indian Air Force's operational experience.
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