The Indian Air Force (IAF) put up a spectacular flying display at Kartavya Path, featuring several formations including Operation Sindoor, Arjan, Varuna, Vajraang and Vijay. A total of 29 aircraft took part in the flypast, comprising 16 fighter jets, four transport aircraft and nine helicopters, operating from five different air bases
"Our forces are truly our pride,” PM Modi said in a social media post. Pic/X
Prime Minister (PM) Narendra Modi on Monday praised India’s security forces and shared glimpses from the 77th Republic Day parade, calling them the “pride of the nation”.
In a post on X, PM Modi said the Republic Day parade reflected the strengthening capabilities of India’s armed forces.
“The Republic Day parade offered a glimpse into the strengthening capabilities of India’s security forces. Our forces are truly our pride,” he said.
A vivid display of India’s cultural mosaic unfolded at Kartavya Path earlier today. The Republic Day parade celebrated India’s cultural diversity, with vibrant performances and tableaux. pic.twitter.com/SmyTgiUJcp
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) January 26, 2026
The Indian Air Force (IAF) put up a spectacular flying display at Kartavya Path, featuring several formations including Operation Sindoor, Arjan, Varuna, Vajraang and Vijay.
A total of 29 aircraft took part in the flypast, comprising 16 fighter jets, four transport aircraft and nine helicopters, operating from five different air bases, news agency ANI reported.
One of the highlights was the ‘Vajraang’ formation, flown by six Rafale fighter aircraft. The high-precision formation showcased air power, operational readiness and strategic capability through tight and dynamic manoeuvres.
Republic Day 2026: PM Modi, President Murmu lead nationwide celebrations
A Rafale aircraft also performed the ‘Vertical Charlie’ manoeuvre, flying in at a speed of 900 kmph at an altitude of 300 metres above ground level over the water channel north of Rajpath. As it approached the dais, the aircraft pulled up sharply, performing multiple rolls and demonstrating exceptional thrust, power and pilot skill, drawing applause from spectators.
The IAF also showcased a special Sindoor formation, comprising two Rafales, two MiG-29s, two Su-30s and one Jaguar in a spearhead formation. The display was dedicated to the Air Force’s role in Operation Sindoor, the four-day confrontation in early May following the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam.
The operation underlined the IAF’s ability to decisively shape military outcomes through speed, precision and seamless jointness. Guided by the principle of ‘Train Like We Fight’, the Air Force strengthened inter-service cooperation, rapidly integrated new systems and weapons, and maintained high operational readiness through robust logistics, maintenance and indigenisation efforts.
Republic Day celebrations were also held across the country. In the Uri sector of Jammu and Kashmir, Indian Army personnel unfurled the national flag to mark the occasion. The Beating Retreat ceremony was also observed at the Attari-Wagah border in Amritsar, Punjab.
Earlier in the day, Prime Minister Modi laid a wreath at the National War Memorial at India Gate. He was accompanied by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan, Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi, Air Chief Marshal A P Singh and Navy Chief Admiral Dinesh Tripathi.
President Droupadi Murmu presided over the main Republic Day celebrations at Kartavya Path. The President of the European Council, Antonio Costa, and the President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, attended the event as chief guests.
Police and paramilitary contingents also marched along Kartavya Path during the ceremonial parade, highlighting the role of central forces in internal security and border management.
India marked its 77th Republic Day on January 26, commemorating the adoption of the Constitution and showcasing the nation’s rich cultural and military heritage.
(With ANI inputs)
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