India is set to display its formidable military prowess and indigenous defense capabilities during the 77th Republic Day parade on Monday, with a special focus on advanced weapon systems and newly-raised regiments. The ceremonial event on Kartavya Path in New Delhi will feature an impressive array of military platforms, including the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile, Akash surface-to-air missile system, and the Main Battle Tank Arjun.
Key Military Platforms and Indigenous Systems
Among the highlights of this year's parade will be the Universal Rocket Launcher System (URLS) Suryastra, making its debut appearance. This advanced system boasts deep-strike capabilities with a range of up to 300 kilometers, representing a significant enhancement in India's surface-to-surface strike capabilities. Officials have confirmed that this will be the first public display of this formidable weapon system.
Newly-Raised Regiments and Formations
The parade will witness the inaugural participation of several newly-established military units. The Bhairav light commando battalion and Shaktiban Regiment will make their ceremonial debut, marking an important milestone in India's defense modernization efforts. The Shaktiban Regiment, specifically established within the artillery corps, comes equipped with cutting-edge drone, counter-drone, and loiter munition capabilities.
In a departure from tradition, the mounted 61 Cavalry contingent will appear in full battle gear rather than their customary ceremonial uniforms. This change symbolizes the armed forces' operational readiness and adds a tactical dimension to the ceremonial proceedings.
Operation Sindoor Tableau and Defense Showcase
A major attraction of this year's parade will be a tri-services tableau featuring detailed replicas of weapon systems deployed during Operation Sindoor in May of last year. This display will include a glass-cased integrated operational center that briefly depicts the operation, serving as a powerful representation of India's resolve to respond decisively to national security challenges.
The Defense Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) will showcase its Long Range Anti-Ship Hypersonic Missile (LR-AShM), a sophisticated hypersonic glide missile capable of engaging both static and moving targets with various payload configurations.
Aerial Displays and Fly-Past Formations
The aerial component of the parade promises to be spectacular, with 29 aircraft participating in the eagerly-awaited fly-past. This includes 16 fighter jets comprising Rafale, Su-30 MKI, MiG-29, and Jaguar aircraft, complemented by four transport aircraft and nine helicopters. The formations, named Arjan, Vajraang, Varuna, and Vijay, will demonstrate India's aerial capabilities across multiple domains.
Aerial support during the ground parade will feature the indigenous Dhruv Advanced Light Helicopter and its armed version, Rudra, flying in Prahar formation to demonstrate battlefield shaping capabilities. The Apache AH-64E and Prachand light combat helicopters will provide additional aerial support as T-90 Bhisma and Main Battle Tank Arjun roll past the saluting dais.
Ceremonial Details and International Participation
President Droupadi Murmu will lead the Republic Day celebrations, which commence at 10:30 AM and are scheduled to last approximately 90 minutes. The event carries the overarching theme of '150 years of Vande Mataram,' celebrating India's cultural heritage and patriotic spirit.
Adding international significance to the occasion, the President of the European Council, Antonio Costa, and the President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, will serve as chief guests, highlighting India's growing diplomatic engagements and strategic partnerships.
Comprehensive Defense Display
The parade will feature an extensive range of defense assets beyond the headline systems. These include the Medium Range Surface-to-Air Missile (MRSAM) system, Advanced Towed Artillery Gun System (ATAGS), Dhanush artillery gun, Divyastra Battery, and static displays of various drone systems. Mechanized columns will showcase the BMP-II Infantry Combat Vehicle and Nag missile system (Tracked) Mk-2, demonstrating India's diverse military capabilities.
The Indian Army will present its assets in a unique "phased battle array formation," including a high mobility reconnaissance vehicle and India's first indigenously designed armored light specialist vehicle. This tactical presentation format represents a significant departure from traditional parade formations.
Traditional elements will also find their place in the celebrations, with Zanskar ponies and Bactrian camels making their debut appearances in the Republic Day parade, adding cultural richness to the military showcase.
This comprehensive display of military hardware, combined with cultural elements and international participation, underscores India's commitment to self-reliance in defense manufacturing while celebrating the nation's unity and diversity on this important national occasion.
