NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday shared glimpses of the Indian Armed Forces from the Republic Day parade. In a post on X, PM Modi called the Indian security forces the “pride of the nation”.
“The Republic Day parade offered a glimpse into the strengthening capabilities of India’s security forces. Our forces are truly our pride,” said PM Modi.
The Indian Air Force (IAF) showcased a spectacular flying display during the 77th Republic Day parade on Kartavya Path. The flypast featured impressive formations, including Operation Sindoor, Arjan, Varuna, Vajrang, and Vijay formations.
During the event, a total of 29 aircraft, including 16 fighter aircraft, four transport aircraft and nine helicopters, participated in this year’s Republic Day flypast. These aircraft operated from the different bases.
The formation consisting of Six Rafale aircraft flew in ‘Vajraang’ Formation. The ‘Vajraang’ Formation is a specialised, high-precision aerial display that demonstrates air power and strategic capability. It was characterised by its dynamic, tight formation, representing strength and operational readiness.
One Rafale flew in at 900 kmph behind Trishul formation, maintaining 300m above ground level, over the water channel North of Rajpath. Approaching the Dais, the aircraft pulled up for Vertical Charlie, leaving spectators spellbound.
During “Vertical Charlie,” the aircraft flew low and fast, performing multiple rolls and showcasing incredible thrust, power, and pilot skill.
The Air Force also showcased a special Sindoor formation, comprising 2 Rafale, 2 MiG-29, 02 Su-30, and 01 Jaguar in ‘Spearhead’ formation, dedicated to the IAF’s role in Operation Sindoor, the four-day confrontation in early May following the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam.
The operation highlighted the IAF’s ability to decisively shape military outcomes with speed, precision and seamless jointness. Guided by the principle of ‘Train Like We Fight’, the Air Force strengthened inter-service cooperation, ensured rapid integration of new systems and weapons, and sustained high operational readiness through robust logistics, maintenance and indigenisation initiatives.
However, the celebrations weren’t limited to Delhi; the Indian Armed Forces also marked the occasion in various parts of the country. In the Uri sector of Jammu and Kashmir, Indian Army Jawans celebrated the day by unfurling the National Flag in the area.
To conclude the festivities, the Beating Retreat ceremony was also observed at the Attari-Wagah border in Punjab’s Amritsar.
