New Delhi, Feb 5 (NationPress) The Indian Air Force (IAF) is poised to exhibit its military strength and strategic readiness this month with one of its largest exercises near the Pakistan border in Rajasthan.

The air operation, titled Vayu Shakti 2026, is scheduled to occur in Jaisalmer on February 27. This exercise is modeled after Operation Sindoor, which successfully dismantled terrorist bases across the border, significantly weakening Pakistan's position. A diverse array of fighter jets will demonstrate the force's strength and accuracy.

As the roar of IAF fighter jets echoes near the Pakistan border, attention will once again be drawn to India’s advancing aerial capabilities.

Nearly all fighter aircraft and air defense systems involved in Operation Sindoor will participate in the Vayu Shakti exercise. Defence officials have indicated that aircraft including Rafale, Sukhoi-30, Tejas, MiG-29, Jaguar, Mirage-2000, and Hawk will demonstrate pinpoint target engagement. The Prachand attack helicopter will also showcase its rocket-firing capabilities.

Notably, for the first time, the retired MiG-21 will be absent from an air military exercise.

As per defence sources, airbases and assets from the Air Force's Western and South-Western Commands will be actively involved. Over 100 aircraft are expected to partake in this significant event.

The exercise will simulate a war environment, controlled and monitored by the Air Force’s Integrated Air Command and Control System (IACCS), which previously tracked all Pakistani jets, missiles, and drones during Operation Sindoor.

In addition to IAF jets, C-130J and C-295 transport aircraft, along with Prachand, Chinook, Mi-17, and ALH helicopters, drones, and loitering munitions from Operation Sindoor will also participate.

For the first time, the C-295 will conduct a night assault landing drill during the Vayu Shakti exercise. The C-130J Super Hercules will make short runway landings, deploying Garud commandos in combat zones before taking off swiftly. Two attack helicopters will secure the operational area during these maneuvers.

Defence officials have confirmed that Pakistan has been informed about the exercise, and a NOTAM (Notice to Airmen) has been issued.

The IACCS will oversee the entire airspace for offensive and defensive operations. Multiple layers of air defense, including anti-aircraft guns, anti-drone systems, and operational readiness platforms, will be established, featuring the Akash missile system and the Army's L-70 guns.

Several dignitaries, including approximately 40 officials from allied embassies based in Delhi, have been invited to witness the Vayu Shakti 2026 event.