Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi
New Delhi, Jan 26: The 77th Republic Day celebrations reached a thrilling crescendo with a breathtaking aerial fly-past by the Indian Air Force, showcasing its combat readiness, precision and cutting-edge capabilities through a series of meticulously choreographed formations.
The sky over Kartavya Path came alive as frontline aircraft including Rafale, Su-30 MKI, MiG-29, Jaguar fighters, P-8i maritime patrol aircraft, Apache helicopters and strategic transport planes roared past in perfect synchrony. In total, 29 aircraft — comprising 16 fighter jets, four transport aircraft and nine helicopters — participated in one of the most anticipated segments of the parade.
The fly-past reflected strong joint operational coordination, with assets from the Indian Air Force and Indian Navy operating seamlessly together. Among the highlights was the Varuna formation, featuring a Navy P-8i aircraft flanked by two Su-30 fighters flying in a classic ‘Vic’ formation.
Another key formation, Arjan, showcased India’s airlift strength, with a C-130 transport aircraft leading two C-295 aircraft in an echeloned Vic formation. In this pattern, aircraft fly in a V-shape at the same altitude, maintaining alignment by referencing the leader’s horizontal stabiliser — a demanding test of precision flying.
Six Rafale fighter jets thundered overhead in the Vajraang formation, a high-skill aerial display symbolising air dominance and the Indian Air Force’s strategic strike capability. The formation drew admiration from spectators lining the ceremonial boulevard.
The Vijay formation proved to be the showstopper. A Rafale fighter streaked across the sky at approximately 900 kmph at a height of just 300 metres above obstacle level before executing the dramatic ‘Vertical Charlie’ manoeuvre. The jet surged upward into a near-vertical climb, performing multiple rapid rolls — a stunning demonstration of raw power, thrust and pilot expertise that was met with loud applause.
Earlier in the day, the air display was preceded by a Prahar formation, where a Dhruv Advanced Light Helicopter carrying the Indian Army’s Operation Sindoor flag flew alongside the Army’s Rudra ALH-WSI and the Indian Air Force’s ALH Mark IV. The opening act set the tone for the spectacle that followed, underlining the theme of jointness and high operational readiness across the armed forces.
Together, the formations offered a powerful visual statement of India’s growing air power and the professionalism of its pilots on the nation’s 77th Republic Day.