What to Expect in the First R-Day Parade After 'Op Sindoor'?
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Synopsis
Discover the exciting highlights of the upcoming Republic Day Parade, including a remarkable flypast and cutting-edge military displays. This event marks a significant moment following 'Operation Sindoor' and showcases India's growing defense capabilities. Don't miss out on the details of this spectacular celebration of military strength and cultural diversity!
Key Takeaways
- Emphasis on Make in India: Showcasing indigenous defense advancements.
- Grand Flypast: Featuring 29 aircraft to highlight aerial strength.
- Cultural Representation: 30 tableaux celebrating India's diversity.
- International Guests: European leaders attending as Chief Guests.
- Marching Contingents: Diverse representation of the armed forces and culture.
New Delhi, Jan 17 (NationPress) The inaugural Republic Day Parade following Operation Sindoor last year is set to showcase a remarkable exhibition of military strength, featuring advanced defence platforms and a spectacular flypast involving 29 aircraft, as confirmed by an official on Saturday.
The display of military prowess during the Parade aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's commendations for Make in India weapons and drones, which demonstrated their effectiveness during Operation Sindoor in May 2025.
This year's Republic Day Parade will uniquely commemorate 150 years of 'Vande Mataram', reflecting India's military capabilities, including BrahMos and Akash missiles, alongside a vibrant array of 30 cultural tableaux, as reported by the Ministry of Defence.
The flypast will include formations of Rafale, Su-30, P8i, C-295, Mig-29, Apache, LCH, ALH, and Mi-17.
The Parade is expected to feature state-of-the-art defence platforms and a dazzling cultural showcase by 2,500 performers, celebrating Vande Mataram and Atmanirbhar Bharat, according to the Ministry of Defence.
The Indian Army will present a Mounted Column of 61 Cavalry and introduce a Battle Array Formation for the first time, alongside seven marching contingents.
The main attractions in the mechanized columns will include HMRV (High Mobility Recce Vehicle), Dhruv Heptr, T-90, Main Battle Tank Arjun, BMP-II, and the NAMIS-II Nag Missile System, along with ATAGS, Dhanush, Drone Shakti, and others, as per the Ministry of Defence.
This year, European Council President Antonio Costa and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen will serve as Chief Guests at the Republic Day Parade.
Previously, PM Modi emphasized the nation’s expanding defence capabilities, expressing that, “India is enhancing its capacity to export equipment for all three armed services. We aim to become a leading defence exporter globally, having increased by 30 times in the last 11 years.”
He added, “Our missiles like BrahMos and Akash have proven their capabilities in 'Operation Sindoor'. The name BrahMos itself is so renowned that just hearing it makes many people anxious, wondering if BrahMos is coming.”
The Ministry of Defence noted that the Republic Day Parade will feature seven Army marching contingents, including an animal contingent with Zansker ponies, Bacterian camels, and dogs, along with SCOUTS, RAJPUT, ASSAM, JAK LI, ARTY, and BHAIRAV contingents marching after the saluting dais.
A total of 18 marching contingents and 13 bands will participate in the Republic Day Parade-2026.
Approximately 10,000 individuals from various sectors have been invited to observe the Republic Day Parade-2026 at Kartavya Path as Special Guests this year, according to the Ministry of Defence.
Individuals recognized for their exceptional contributions to income and employment generation, technology, innovation, start-ups, and best performers under key government initiatives have been identified and invited to attend the ceremony.
Point of View
I firmly believe that this year's Republic Day Parade symbolizes India's rising stature on the global stage. The integration of indigenous defense capabilities and cultural representation showcases our commitment to national pride and self-reliance, reflecting our aspirations for a secure and prosperous future.
NationPress
17/01/2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of the Republic Day Parade?
The Republic Day Parade commemorates India's transition to a republic and showcases military strength, cultural heritage, and advancements in defense technology.
What can we expect from this year's flypast?
This year's flypast will feature 29 aircraft, including advanced fighters like Rafale and Su-30, demonstrating India's aerial capabilities.
Who are the Chief Guests for the Parade?
European Council President Antonio Costa and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen will be the Chief Guests at this year's Republic Day Parade.
What highlights should we look forward to in the mechanized columns?
The mechanized columns will showcase an array of advanced defense systems, including BrahMos missiles, T-90 tanks, and innovative drones.
How many contingents will participate in the Parade?
A total of 18 marching contingents and 13 bands are expected to participate in this year's Republic Day Parade.
