From sonic booms to night precision strikes, India’s air warriors put on a full-spectrum combat show in Rajasthan.
The Indian Air Force (IAF) on Friday showcased its combat readiness and technological edge during Exercise Vayushakti-26 at the Pokhran Field Firing Range in Jaisalmer, Rajasthan.
Designed around a defined operational storyline for the first time, the exercise simulated a live combat theatre — blending offensive air strikes, air defence missions, special forces operations and humanitarian response drills into one seamless battlefield narrative.
The event opened with a ceremonial flypast by Chetak helicopters carrying the national flags, before a thunderous sonic boom from a Rafale fighter jet signalled the start of high-intensity action.
More than 130 aircraft took part, including Rafale, Su-30 MKI, Mirage-2000, MiG-29, Jaguar, Hawk, Mi-17, C-130J, C-295 and C-17 platforms, alongside indigenous assets like the Advanced Light Helicopter Dhruv and the Light Combat Helicopter Prachand.
Fighter jets carried out precision strikes using advanced air-to-ground weapons, while coordinated air defence drills featured systems like Akash and Spyder missiles, supported by Army platforms such as L-70 and M-777 guns — highlighting joint-force synergy.
As night fell, Garud Special Forces and Para SF units simulated urban intervention and hostage rescue missions, with assault landings and evacuations reinforcing the IAF’s rapid response capabilities.
The exercise wrapped up with a symbolic ceasefire flypast by a C-17 aircraft and a drone display celebrating the force’s legacy.
President Droupadi Murmu attended as Chief Guest, accompanied by top officials including Rajasthan Governor Haribhau Bagde. Earlier, she undertook a sortie in the indigenous LCH Prachand, underscoring India’s push for defence self-reliance under “Atmanirbhar Bharat.”
Exercise Vayushakti-26 ultimately reaffirmed the IAF’s role as a key pillar of India’s strategic deterrence and national power — ready for day-and-night dominance.
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