New Delhi, January 26, 2026: The Republic Day celebrations on Kartavya Path this year witnessed a breathtaking display of India’s aerial prowess, as the Indian Air Force executed a highly anticipated flypast that left the crowd exhilarated. Fighter pilots formed the dramatic ‘Sindoor’ formation, dedicated to Operation Sindoor, paying tribute to last year’s strategic missions.
Impressive Flypast Featuring 29 Aircraft
A total of 29 aircraft participated in the flypast, including 16 fighter jets, four transport planes, and nine helicopters. The formations included Rafale, Sukhoi-30MKI, MiG-29, and Jaguar jets, along with strategically vital C-130 and modern C-295 transport aircraft. The roaring jets enthralled spectators, and pilots executed several formations including the Arjun, Vajrang, Varun, and Vijay formations, with the ‘Sindoor’ formation featuring 2 Rafale, 2 MiG-29, 2 Sukhoi-30, and 1 Jaguar jet.
Operation Sindoor: Tribute to Past Military Success
The flypast highlighted the aircraft that played a critical role in Operation Sindoor, during which the Indian armed forces successfully destroyed nine terrorist hideouts in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. Four Mi-17 helicopters carrying national flags, army, navy, and air force standards were also part of the flypast, symbolizing India’s military coordination and discipline.
Celebrating 150 Years of ‘Vande Mataram’
Republic Day 2026 was dedicated to celebrating the glorious 150th anniversary of the national song ‘Vande Mataram’. The Air Force band performed iconic renditions, and the parade included 18 marching contingents and 13 bands from various services. Following the parade, indigenous equipment and weaponry from all three armed forces were showcased alongside the flypast.
Professional Excellence on Display
The event highlighted the professionalism, discipline, and leadership of the Indian Air Force. Squadron Leader Hemant Singh Kanyar commanded the Guard of Honour at the National War Memorial, while Flight Lieutenant Akshita Dhankar was entrusted with the crucial duty of flag hoisting on Kartavya Path. The flypast and parade underscored India’s indigenous defense capabilities and the valor of its armed forces, leaving spectators awe-inspired.
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