The Indian Air Force led the grand finale of the 77th Republic Day parade on Kartavya Path on Monday with a fly-past comprising the, Varuna, Vajraang, Arjan, and Vijay formations. Several aircraft, including Rafale, Su-30, P8i, Mig-29, and Apache, were a part of the fly-past.
Under the theme of "150 Years of Vande Mataram", India displayed its military prowess, cultural diversity and development at the parade. Follow Republic Day live updates
WATCH | Varuna Formation
The aerial fly-past, one of the most eagerly awaited events of the parade, featured 29 aircraft, including 16 fighter jets, four transport aircraft and nine helicopters.
{{/usCountry}}The aerial fly-past, one of the most eagerly awaited events of the parade, featured 29 aircraft, including 16 fighter jets, four transport aircraft and nine helicopters.
{{/usCountry}}The aircraft included Rafale, Su-30 MKI, MiG-29 and Jaguar, complemented by strategic assets C-130 and C-295, as well as the Indian Navy's P-8i aircraft.
WATCH | Arjan Formation
The Varuna formation comprised one P-8i aircraft and two Su-30 aircraft, flying in 'Vic' formation. While the Arjan formation saw one C-130 aircraft in the lead with two C-295 aircraft in echelon in 'Vic' formation.
In the Vic formation, the aircraft create a single V-shape, and all planes fly at the same altitude. Those 'on the wings' use their leaders' horizontal stabiliser as a reference point to keep their own wings aligned in the V-shaped formation.
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Six Rafale aircraft formed the Vajraang formation and flew past the Kartavya Path at the 77th Republic Day parade. It is a specialised, high-precision aerial display that showcases air power and strategic capabilities.
WATCH | Vajraang Formation
The Vijay formation stole the show as a Rafale aircraft, flying at a speed of 900 kmph, maintaining a 300m AOL (above ground level or above obstacle level) over the water channel North of Rajpath. The aircraft then climbed for a Vertical Charlie manoeuvre.
During 'Vertical Charlie', the aircraft flew low and fast, then pulled up into a vertical climb, and performed multiple rolls showcasing its incredible thrust, power and the pilot's skills.
WATCH | Vijay Formation
Earlier in the day, during the parade, one Dhruv Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH), carrying the 'Operation Sindoor' flag of the Indian Army, along with the 'Rudra' ALH-WSI of the Indian Army and the ALH Mark IV of the Indian Air Force, showcased the Prahar formation.