The Indian Air Force (IAF) will flaunt its air power and precision during this year’s Republic Day celebrations with 40 aircraft flying grandly over the national capital. The fleet will consist of 22 fighter jets, 11 transport aircraft and seven helicopters and will fly over Delhi in 12 complex formations. These aircraft, which will be flown from 10 different air bases across the country, will highlight the readiness and advanced capabilities of the IAF.
A spectacular start: flag formation
The air parade begins with a flag formation of four Mi-17 helicopters carrying the Indian flag and flags representing the three branches of the Indian Armed Forces. This symbolic opening sets the tone for India’s show of military power.
Precision and Power: Fighter
Some of the most thrilling segments include the flight of India’s most advanced fighter jets. The formation includes:
• Three MiG-29s in Qatari formation.
• 5 Jaguar aircraft in Amrit formation.
• Six Rafale jets execute Bajran formation. This will surely attract the VVIPs and thousands of spectators in attendance.
• Three Sukhoi-30s appear in Thrissur formation, showcasing the fighter’s formidable maneuverability.
• Two additional Sukhois will be accompanied by Netra, a state-of-the-art reconnaissance aircraft.
These formations not only reflect the precision of IAF pilots but also serve as a testament to the force’s modern capabilities, including combat-ready Rafale and Sukhoi fighters.
New faces: C-295 and Dornier aircraft
Two C-295 transport aircraft will participate in the flypast for the first time as part of India’s Make in India initiative. In addition to these, three Dornier aircraft of the Indian Coast Guard will appear in the Rakshak formation as a tribute to the country’s maritime defence. Additional Dornier aircraft will fly in Sutlej formations with AN-32s.
Additionally, India’s largest military transport aircraft, the C-17 Globemaster, will also participate, demonstrating the IAF’s strategic airlift capabilities.
Grand Finale: Rafale and Vertical Charlie
The spectacular flight culminates in a breathtaking vertical Charlie maneuver by the Vijay formation and Rafale fighter jets, showcasing the acrobatics and precision flying that are the hallmarks of the Indian Air Force.
march with pride
As a fitting tribute, 144 Air Warriors will march in the Republic Day Parade led by Squadron Leader Mahendra Singh. Among the participants in the march are Air Flight Lieutenant Damini Deshmukh, Air Flight Lieutenant Nepo Moiransem and Flight Officer Abhinav Ghosh who will be sworn in as aides. Additionally, a band of 72 Air Force musicians will march to the iconic Sound Barrier tune, adding to the grandeur of the day.
conspicuous absence
The aviation display is undoubtedly impressive, but some aircraft will be absent. The indigenous LCA Tejas was excluded from this year’s flypast due to its single-engine configuration. Additionally, the ALH Dhruv helicopter, which was recently involved in a crash in Porbandar, has been grounded due to safety reasons. The helicopter will only return to the skies once the cause of the accident has been thoroughly investigated.
This year’s Republic Day flypast promises to be a captivating spectacle of India’s military and technological prowess, highlighting the advanced capabilities of the Air Force while paying homage to India’s rich heritage. The event, with the formation flying with perfect precision, serves as a reminder of India’s commitment to protect the skies and maintain peace in the region.
