New Delhi: The Indian Air Force delivered a powerful aerial display at the 77th Republic Day parade on Kartavya Path, underscoring India’s air power and operational readiness. Leading the grand finale, the fly past featured some of the most advanced fighter jets and aircraft in the IAF inventory, drawing wide attention for both its scale and symbolism.
Among the aircraft on display was a Rafale fighter jet bearing tail number BS 022, which had previously been falsely claimed by Pakistan to have been shot down during the military stand off following Operation Sindoor. The appearance of the aircraft in the official Republic Day visuals served as a clear rebuttal to those claims. India has consistently stated that none of its Rafale jets or S 400 air defence systems suffered any damage during the operation.
The fly past involved 29 aircraft, including 16 fighter jets, four transport aircraft and nine helicopters, flying in precise and coordinated formations. Participating platforms included Rafale, Su 30 MKI, MiG 29, Jaguar, Apache helicopters and the Indian Navy’s P 8i maritime patrol aircraft, reflecting the joint operational strength of India’s armed forces.
A key highlight was the spearhead formation, also referred to as the Sindoor formation, comprising two Rafales, two MiG 29s, two Su 30s and one Jaguar. The formation was dedicated to the Indian Air Force’s role in Operation Sindoor, launched in May last year following the deadly Pahalgam terror attack. Another striking display was the Vajraang formation, with six Rafale aircraft showcasing high precision and advanced combat capability.
The Vijay formation captured particular attention as a Rafale aircraft flew at nearly 900 kilometres per hour at a low altitude before executing the demanding Vertical Charlie manoeuvre. The manoeuvre involved a rapid vertical climb and multiple rolls, highlighting the aircraft’s thrust and the pilot’s skill.
Operation Sindoor involved precision strikes on nine terror targets in Pakistan and Pakistan occupied Kashmir. In its initial phase, the Indian Air Force targeted camps linked to major terror groups, eliminating over 100 terrorists. Following Pakistan’s attempted retaliation, Indian forces expanded the operation, striking multiple Pakistani airbases and leading to four days of intense cross border military engagement involving aircraft, missiles and artillery.
