As India gears up to celebrate its 75th Republic Day, the Indian Air Force (IAF) has planned a spectacular fly-past that will feature the unique Tangail formation. The formation will include the heritage aircraft Dakota, accompanied by two Dornier Do-228 aircraft. What makes this year’s fly-past particularly noteworthy is that the Dornier aircraft will be flying using a blended mixture of Aviation Turbine Fuel and Biofuel, showcasing the IAF’s commitment to environmental sustainability and innovation.
The Tangail formation pays tribute to the role of transport aircraft during the Tangail Airdrop in the 1971 India-Pakistan war. The Dakota, a legendary transport aircraft, played a crucial role in the historic airborne operation in Tangail, Bangladesh, during the war.
In addition to the environmentally conscious fly-past, the Republic Day parade will feature a captivating display of India’s indigenous weapon systems and military capabilities. The parade, which will have French President Emmanuel Macron as the chief guest, aims to showcase the country’s advancements in defense technology and its commitment to self-reliance.
One of the highlights of the parade will be the Light Combat Helicopter (LCH) Prachand. Developed and produced by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), the LCH is India’s first indigenous multi-role combat helicopter. Renowned for its formidable ground attack and aerial combat capabilities, the LCH features modern stealth features, robust armor protection, and impressive night attack capabilities. With an advanced navigation system, close combat-tailored guns, and potent air-to-air missiles, the LCH is designed for optimal performance on the modern battlefield.
Alongside the LCH, the parade will showcase the weaponized variant of the Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH) Dhruv, known as Rudra. The ALH Dhruv has been a versatile platform in the Indian military, serving in roles ranging from transport to reconnaissance and now in a weaponized combat role.
The display of weapon systems will extend to the Pinaka multi-barrel rocket launchers, a potent artillery system developed by the Defence Research and Development Organization (DRDO). The Pinaka system has demonstrated its effectiveness and has been successfully exported to international customers, showcasing India’s capabilities in the field of defense exports.
Another indigenous product to be showcased is the Swathi radar, also developed by the DRDO. The Swathi radar system is known for its capabilities in surveillance and target acquisition. Like the Pinaka, the Swathi radar has achieved successful exports, further establishing India as a player in the global defense market.
The Republic Day parade serves not only as a display of military might but also as a platform to highlight the advancements made in indigenous defense technologies. It reinforces India’s commitment to self-reliance in defense production and showcases the capabilities of its defense research and manufacturing sector.
The Defense Secretary has announced that the ‘Beating Retreat’ ceremony at Vijay Chowk on January 29 will feature exclusively Indian tunes, providing a fitting conclusion to the Republic Day celebrations. This ceremony, with its rich tradition, marks the end of the military festivities associated with Republic Day and signifies a return to normalcy.
In terms of logistics, a total seating capacity of 77,000 has been arranged for the Republic Day celebrations, with 42,000 seats specifically reserved for the general public. The parade is scheduled to commence at 10:30 hours and is expected to last approximately 90 minutes. The event will see the participation of various branches of the armed forces, paramilitary forces, and vibrant cultural performances, celebrating the diversity and unity of the nation.
While the celebrations and displays are a source of pride for the country, they also serve as a reminder of the challenges and responsibilities that come with being a major player on the global stage. The emphasis on indigenous technology and innovation aligns with India’s broader goals of reducing dependency on foreign imports and establishing itself as a hub for defense manufacturing.
As the world witnesses Indian military prowess on Republic Day, the nation sends a strong message about its commitment to modernization, self-reliance, and global cooperation in the field of defense. The showcased advancements in technology and indigenous capabilities not only bolster national pride but also position India as a significant contributor to the evolving global defense landscape. The Republic Day celebrations, with their display of military might and cultural diversity, underscore India’s journey as a sovereign, vibrant, and forward-looking nation.