IAF's Vayu Shakti Exercise to Demonstrate Combat Power at Pokhran with Rafale, Tejas, Su-30
The Indian Air Force (IAF) is set to conduct its biennial firepower demonstration, Exercise Vayu Shakti, at the Pokhran range in Rajasthan on February 27. This event will feature a wide array of aircraft, including the Rafale, Tejas, and Su-30MKI, and aims to highlight the success of last year's Operation Sindoor.
Operation Sindoor Success Takes Center Stage
Vice Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Nagesh Kapoor, stated that this year's Vayu Shakti assumes a different significance as it follows Operation Sindoor. He emphasized the IAF's role as the first and fastest responder in conflicts, capable of delivering decisive strategic outcomes.
Air Marshal Kapoor remarked, "Rafale definitely was a hero, among other heroes, during Operation Sindoor." He added that the IAF is actively looking to induct more newer-generation multi-role fighter aircraft (MRFA), with decisions on procurement, including for Rafales, still under consideration.
Comprehensive Display of Air Power
The exercise will showcase the full spectrum of IAF's capabilities, involving over 120 air assets. Key highlights include:
- Fighter Jets: 77 aircraft, such as Rafale, Su-30MKI, MiG-29, LCA Tejas, Jaguar, and Mirage-2000.
- Helicopters: Apache, Chinook, LCH Prachand, and Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH).
- Transport Aircraft: 8 platforms, including the C-295 making its debut in the drill.
Additionally, the event will feature advanced weapon systems like Short Range Loitering Munitions (SRLM), Akash, SpyDer, and Counter Unmanned Aerial Systems (CUAS), performing day, dusk, and night missions.
Integrated Operations and Humanitarian Roles
Wing Commander Ajit B Wasane detailed that the exercise will involve about 12,000 kg of explosives and 277 weapons, with integrated joint operations alongside the Indian Army. This includes the use of M-777 howitzers, L-70 systems, and Special Forces troops.
The Defence Ministry noted that Vayu Shakti will also demonstrate the IAF's humanitarian assistance and disaster management capabilities, such as rapid airlift and evacuation from conflict zones.
The exercise reaffirms IAF's commitment to airspace dominance and the vision of 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat', showcasing indigenous platforms and long-range precision targeting abilities.
