NEW DELHI: The Indian Air Force (IAF) on Sunday stole the spotlight during the 76th Republic Day celebrations, presenting a stunning air display that left spectators spellbound. Precision at incredible speeds was on full display as 40 aircraft and helicopters from 10 different bases soared across the skies over Kartavya Path.
The aerial spectacle featured 22 fighter jets, 11 transport aircraft, and seven helicopters, including Rafale, Su-30, Jaguar, C-130, C-295, C-17, AWACS, Dornier-228, An-32, Apache, and Mi-17 helicopters. Various formations, such as Dhwaj, Ajay, Satluj, Rakshak, Arjan, Netra, Bheem, Amrit, Vajrang, Trishul, and Vijay, mesmerised the audience. The grand finale featured the iconic Vertical Charlie manoeuvre by a Rafale fighter jet.
Dhwaj Formation: A proud start
The aerial formations began with the Dhwaj Formation, where four Mi-17 IV helicopters from the 129 Helicopter Unit carried the National Ensign and the service flags of the Army, Navy, and Air Force. Group Captain Alok Ahlawat led this formation, with Wing Commanders Shailendra Kumar Singh, Rohit Tiwari, and Vinay representing the Army, Navy, and Air Force flags, respectively. As the helicopters soared overhead, they showered petals on the spectators below, adding a heartwarming touch to the display.
The Indian Air Force presents fly-past during the 76th #RepublicDay Parade on Kartavya Path. (Visuals of Arjan Formation comprising one C-130 aircraft in lead with two C-295 aircraft in echelon flying in ‘Vic’ Formation.)
Rakshak Formation: A striking coordination
The Rakshak Formation followed, with three Dornier-228 aircraft from the Indian Coast Guard flying in a seamless ‘Vic’ formation. Their precise manoeuvres highlighted the coordination and readiness of the IAF in joint operations.
The Indian Air Force presents fly-past during the 76th #RepublicDay Parade on Kartavya Path. (Visuals of Dhwaj Formation comprising four Mi-17 IV helicopters flying past in ‘Vic’ formation.)
Satluj Formation: A symbol of strength
Two Dornier-228 aircraft and one An-32 aircraft came together to form the Satluj Formation, another representation of the IAF’s versatility and operational depth.
The Indian Air Force presents fly-past during the 76th Republic Day Parade on Kartavya Path. (Visuals of Satluj Formation comprising two Dornier-228 aircraft and one An-32 aircraft flying in ‘Vic’ formation.)
Bheem Formation: Power and precision
The Bheem Formation displayed raw power, with a C-17 aircraft flanked by two Su-30 fighter jets streaming fuel in an impeccable ‘Vic’ formation.
The Indian Air Force presents fly-past during the 76th #RepublicDay Parade on Kartavya Path. (Visuals of Rakshak Formation comprising three Dornier-228 aircraft from the Indian Coast Guard flying in ‘Vic’ formation.)
Amrit Formation: Celebrating heritage
In a tribute to India’s rich heritage, the Amrit Formation saw five Jaguar aircraft flying in an ‘Arrow-head’ formation over the water channel north of Kartavya Path. This display underscored the Air Force’s remarkable precision and discipline.
The Indian Air Force presents fly-past during the 76th RepublicDay Parade on Kartavya Path. (Visuals of Bheem Formation comprising one C-17 aircraft and two Su-30 aircraft in echelon (streaming fuel) flying past in ‘Vic’ formation.)