The Indian Air Force (IAF) conducted its Press Preview for the Republic Day Parade (RDP) 2026 on Janux
ary 22, offering a detailed overview of the IAF marching contingent, Veterans’ tableau and the flypast that will feature prominently during the national celebrations at Kartavya Path.
Briefing the media, the IAF stated that the Republic Day Parade symbolises national unity, reflecting India’s military strength and technological advancement. In line with its motto “Touch the Sky with Glory,” the Air Force emphasised its commitment to safeguarding the nation’s skies while contributing to nation-building.
IAF Lead Service for Republic Day 2026
The Indian Air Force is the Lead Service for all ceremonial events associated with Republic Day 2026. The Ceremonial Guard of Honour, marking the commencement of the parade during which Narendra Modi, Prime Minister of India, will pay homage to fallen heroes, will be commanded by Squadron Leader Hemant Singh Katyal.
IAF Marching Contingent
The IAF marching contingent, comprising 144 young Air Warriors selected from across the service for their exemplary military bearing and discipline, represents a blend of tradition and modern professionalism.
The 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.
IAF Band: First-Ever Inclusion of Women Agniveervayu
Supporting the marching contingent will be the IAF Band, led by Sergeant Charles Antony Daniel.
The band consists of 72 elite musicians, including 57 Agniveervayu, nine women Agniveervayu (participating for the first time), and three Drum Majors. As the band passes the Presidential dais, it will perform the tune “Sound Barrier,” symbolising the Air Force’s modern and dynamic character.
Veterans’ Tableau: ‘Sangram se Rashtra Nirman Tak’
A major highlight of the press briefing was the unveiling of the IAF Veterans’ Tableau themed “Sangram se Rashtra Nirman Tak” (From Battle to Nation Building).
The front portion of the tableau will feature the Amar Jawan Jyoti along with 3D models of iconic military platforms including the T-55 and Vijayanta tanks, Hunter, MiG-21, Mirage and Jaguar aircraft, INS Mysore and INS Rajput, and representations of the 1965 War, 1971 War and Operation Vijay (Kargil, 1999).
The rear portion highlights veterans’ continued contribution to the nation through disaster relief, medical services, education, social development initiatives and ‘Make in India’ efforts.
Flypast: 29 Aircraft, Eight Formations
The Republic Day flypast will feature 29 aircraft—16 fighter aircraft, four transport aircraft and nine helicopters—operating from six different bases and organised into eight formations.
The flypast will commence with the Dhwaj Formation, where four Mi-17 IV helicopters will carry the National Flag along with the flags of the Indian Army, Navy and Air Force.
The aerial display will include Rafale, Su-30 MKI, MiG-29 and Jaguar fighters, strategic platforms such as the C-130 and C-295, and the Indian Navy’s P-8I aircraft.
Attack and utility helicopters—including the IAF’s ALH Mk-IV, the Indian Army’s ALH-WSI, Apache, and Light Combat Helicopter (LCH)—will participate, underscoring strong jointmanship among the Services.
A centrepiece of the flypast will be the “Operation Sindoor” formation, reflecting precision strike capability and the IAF’s operational ethos of “Achook, Abhedya aur Sateek” (Accurate, Invincible and Precise).
IAF: Combat-Ready, United and Future-Focused
The press preview reaffirmed the Indian Air Force’s status as a combat-ready, technologically advanced and cohesive force, seamlessly blending operational excellence, proud heritage and a forward-looking vision as a steadfast pillar of national security.
