New Delhi | 22 January 2026

The upcoming Republic Day parade in New Delhi will showcase a grand aerial display featuring 29 aircraft, including a new fighter formation named “Sindoor.” Officials said the formation will include seven fighter jets, highlighting the Indian Air Force’s role during Operation Sindoor, the four-day military operation carried out in early May after the Pahalgam terror attack.

The “Sindoor” formation will consist of two Rafales, two MiG-29s, two Sukhoi-30s, and one Jaguar, according to officials. This new formation marks a special tribute to the IAF’s mission during Operation Sindoor, when India struck terror and military targets in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) from May 7 to May 10.

For the first time, the flypast will be conducted in two blocks, following a new phased battle array format. This change aims to show the armed forces’ capabilities in a more realistic sequence, displaying how troops, tanks, artillery, missiles, and aircraft are deployed in actual combat scenarios. Unlike previous years, the flypast will now align with the IAF’s role in the battle order rather than being held at the end of the parade.

The 77th Republic Day parade will include 16 fighter jets, four transport aircraft, and nine helicopters. It will feature formations like the six-Rafale Vajraang, Varuna, Arjan, Garud, Prahar, and Dhwaj. The air force tableau will carry the theme “Sangram se Rashtra Nirman Tak” and will honour veterans’ contributions. Additionally, the IAF band will include nine women Agniveers. European Union leaders Ursula von der Leyen and Antonio Costa will be the chief guests for the celebrations.

Republic Day Flypast to Feature 29 Aircraft with New ‘Sindoor’ Formation

 The Republic Day parade this year will see a spectacular aerial display with 29 aircraft participating. A new fighter formation called “Sindoor” will be showcased, highlighting the Indian Air Force’s role in Operation Sindoor, the four-day military action after the Pahalgam terror attack.

The “Sindoor” formation will include two Rafales, two MiG-29s, two Sukhoi-30s, and a Jaguar, officials said. The operation, launched in early May, involved strikes on terror and military targets in Pakistan and PoK and ended with a ceasefire on May 10.

For the first time, the flypast will be held in two blocks, following a new battle array format. This change aims to show the armed forces’ strength in a realistic order, displaying how troops, tanks, missiles, and aircraft work together during a conflict.

The parade will also feature 16 fighter jets, four transport aircraft, and nine helicopters, including formations like Vajraang, Varuna, Arjan, Garud, Prahar, and Dhwaj. The air force tableau will follow the theme “Sangram se Rashtra Nirman Tak”, and Ursula von der Leyen and Antonio Costa will be the chief guests.