New Delhi, Jan 22 (NationPress) The IAF’s ‘Operation Sindoor’ formation, showcasing air power and precision that reflects the air force’s motto ‘Achook, Abhedya va Sateek’, is set to be the highlight of the Republic Day flypast, as stated by an official on Thursday.

The upcoming flypast will include 29 aircraft, featuring 16 fighters, 4 transport planes, and 9 helicopters, all operating from six different bases, according to a Defence Ministry representative.

Organized into eight unique formations, the flypast will kick off with the Dhwaj formation, where four Mi-17 IV helicopters will carry the National Flag along with the flags of the three military services, as per the Defence Ministry announcement.

The display will highlight the capabilities of the Rafale, Su-30 MKI, MiG-29, and Jaguar aircraft, supported by strategic assets including the C-130 and C-295 transport aircraft, alongside the Indian Navy’s P-8i aircraft.

Additionally, attack helicopters such as the IAF’s ALH MK IV and the Indian Army’s ALH WSI, Apache, and Light Combat Helicopter (LCH) will also take part in the flypast, showcasing a spirit of jointmanship, according to an official statement.

The IAF marching contingent will represent a significant blend of tradition and modernity.

Composed of 144 young Air Warriors selected from across the service for their exemplary military conduct, the contingent has undergone weeks of intensive training to honor a legacy of pride and glory while steadfastly upholding the core values of the IAF, as highlighted in the statement.

The IAF marching contingent will be led by Squadron Leader Jagdesh Kumar, with Squadron Leader Nikita Choudhary, Flight Lieutenant Prakhar Chandrakar, and Flight Lieutenant Dinesh serving as Supernumerary Officers.

The IAF Band, directed by Sergeant Charles Antony Daniel, will support the marching group. This band consists of 72 elite musicians, including 57 Agniveervayu and 9 Agniveervayu women (a first-time introduction), along with 3 Drum Majors.

As the band passes by the Presidential dais, it will perform the piece ‘Sound Barrier’, demonstrating its versatility and the contemporary composition of the Force.

The theme for the Veteran's Tableau will be ‘Sangram se Rashtra Nirman Tak’ (From Battle to Nation Building), as stated.

The front section of the tableau will showcase the Amar Jawan Jyoti, 3D models of historical war machines including the T-55 and Vijayant Tank, Hunter, MiG-21, Mirage, and Jaguar aircraft, INS Mysore and INS Rajput, as well as representations from the 1965, 1971 wars, and the 1999 Kargil Operation Vijay.

The back section will focus on the contributions of veterans to national development, emphasizing their voluntary efforts in flood relief, medical services, education, and the ‘Make in India’ initiative, according to the statement.