The Indian Air Force (IAF) captivated audiences with a breathtaking aerial display at the 76th Republic Day celebrations on Sunday. Showcasing precision, speed, and unparalleled skill, the IAF’s dazzling flypast was a testament to its operational excellence and dedication to the nation.
The flypast featured a stunning array of 40 aircraft and helicopters, including 22 fighter jets, 11 transport aircraft, and seven helicopters, operating from 10 different bases. Among the aircraft were Rafale, Su-30, Jaguar, C-130, C-295, C-17, AWACS, Dornier-228, An-32, Apache, and Mi-17 helicopters.
The aerial formations included Dhwaj, Ajay, Satluj, Rakshak, Arjan, Netra, Bheem, Amrit, Vajrang, Trishul, and Vijay, each demonstrating the IAF’s precision and prowess. The finale, a spectacular Vertical Charlie manoeuvre, was performed by a Rafale fighter jet, leaving spectators in awe.
The flypast began with the Dhwaj Formation, led by Mi-17 1V helicopters from the 129 Helicopter Unit, proudly carrying the National Ensign alongside the service ensigns of the Army, Navy, and Air Force. Group Captain Alok Ahlawat led the formation, accompanied by Wing Commanders Shailendra Kumar Singh, Rohit Tiwari, and Vinay, representing the respective service flags. As the helicopters glided overhead, they showered vibrant petals upon the crowd, creating a memorable and emotional moment.
The IAF’s marching contingent, led by Squadron Leader Mahender Singh Garati, included 144 airmen in a 12×12 formation, supported by Flight Lieutenants Nepo Moirangthem, Damini Deshmukh, and Flying Officer Abhinav Gorsi. The IAF band, conducted by Sergeant Charles Anthony Daniel, featured 72 musicians, including 22 Agniveers, and performed the rousing tune “Sound Barrier” as they passed the presidential dais.
In a landmark moment, 48 Agniveervayu women participated in the tri-services contingent, showcasing their skill and discipline. Thirty of these women underwent specialized training to execute synchronized drill manoeuvres. Their debut public performance during Kargil Vijay Diwas on July 26, 2024, was a testament to their hard work, achieved after just five months of rigorous preparation.
The IAF continues to play a crucial role beyond safeguarding the skies. It has been a beacon of hope during natural disasters, assisting in Humanitarian Aid and Disaster Relief (HADR) operations. From deploying NDRF and SDRF teams during forest fires and cyclones to airlifting essential relief materials and conducting casualty evacuations, the IAF has consistently served as a lifeline in times of need.
As India’s global stature grows, the IAF is strengthening its presence internationally. It is establishing six new defence wings, starting with Spain, Armenia, and Ivory Coast, to bolster India’s strategic partnerships across the Indo-Pacific, Europe, Africa, and the Americas.
The IAF demonstrated its capabilities through large-scale exercises such as Ex-Vayu Shakti-24 and Ex-Gagan Shakti-24, showcasing readiness across all domains and the ability to address emerging challenges with precision and excellence.
As the guardians of India’s skies, the Indian Air Force continues to soar higher, embodying the ideals of courage, commitment, and service. Their stunning display at the Republic Day parade is a testament to their unmatched dedication and operational brilliance. Let us salute the men and women of the IAF for their unwavering service to the nation.
