Akash, BrahMos To Arjun And T-90: Inside India’s Republic Day Defence Display

India's Republic Day parade at Kartavya Path this year places a sharp spotlight on defence preparedness, shifting the focus from ceremonial display to combat readiness.

With a phased battle array formation introduced for the first time, the parade presents India's military assets in a sequence that reflects real battlefield deployment and joint operations.

Phased battle array defines the parade format

The Republic Day parade is being presented in a combat-sequenced order, offering a realistic view of how infantry, mechanised forces, artillery, missile systems and air assets operate together during conflict. Officials said the format is aimed at helping spectators understand operational coordination rather than isolated displays.

Missile systems and artillery on ground display

A wide range of missile and artillery platforms are rolling down Kartavya Path, highlighting India's strike and air defence capabilities.

• BrahMos Missile System

One of the world's fastest supersonic cruise missiles, BrahMos represents India's precision strike capability across land and sea targets.

• Akash Surface-to-Air Missile System

Designed for air defence, the Akash system provides protection against aerial threats such as fighter jets, drones and cruise missiles.

• Medium Range Surface-to-Air Missile (MRSAM)

The MRSAM strengthens India's layered air defence network and is capable of intercepting multiple aerial targets.

• Universal Rocket Launcher System (URLS) Suryastra

Making its Republic Day debut, Suryastra is capable of carrying out surface-to-surface strikes up to a range of 300 km, according to officials.

• Advanced Towed Artillery Gun System (ATAGS)

Indigenously developed, ATAGS offers extended range and firepower, reinforcing India's artillery modernisation drive.

• Dhanush Artillery Gun

A long-range artillery system derived from the Bofors platform, Dhanush enhances precision and sustained fire support.

• Divyastra Battery

The Divyastra system showcases India's evolving artillery and strike capabilities as part of the ground combat display.

• Static Drone Display

A range of drones are on display, reflecting the growing role of unmanned systems in surveillance, targeting and combat operations.

Armoured vehicles and battlefield platforms

The mechanised columns underline the Army's mobility and armoured strength.

• Arjun Main Battle Tank

India's indigenously developed main battle tank features enhanced firepower, mobility and protection.

• T-90 Bhisma Tank

A frontline tank of the Indian Army, the T-90 Bhisma is known for its battlefield reliability and combat versatility.

• BMP-II Infantry Combat Vehicle

The BMP-II provides armoured mobility and fire support to infantry units during mechanised operations.

• Nag Missile System (Tracked) Mk-2

A fire-and-forget anti-tank guided missile system designed to destroy heavily armoured enemy vehicles.

DRDO's hypersonic and naval strike capability

The Defence Research and Development Organisation is showcasing next-generation strike technology.

• Long Range Anti-Ship Hypersonic Missile (LR-AShM)

Described as a hypersonic glide missile, the LR-AShM is capable of engaging both static and moving targets and can carry different payloads.

Air power and helicopter formations

The aerial segment remains one of the most anticipated highlights of the parade.

• Sindoor Formation Fighter Jets

Seven aircraft fly in Sindoor formation, including two Rafales, two MiG-29s, two Sukhoi-30 aircraft and a Jaguar, showcasing the Indian Air Force's role in Operation Sindoor.

• Fighter Aircraft in Fly-Past

The fly-past includes Rafale, Su-30 MKI, MiG-29 and Jaguar fighter jets.

• Transport and Surveillance Aircraft

Platforms such as the C-130, C-295 and the Navy's P-8i aircraft demonstrate strategic lift and maritime surveillance capabilities.

• Dhruv Advanced Light Helicopter

The Dhruv helicopter highlights India's indigenously developed rotary-wing capability.

• Rudra Armed Helicopter in Prahar Formation

The armed variant of Dhruv flies in Prahar formation, showcasing close combat and attack roles.

New Army units and ceremonial firsts

The parade also reflects structural reforms within the Army.

• Bhairav Light Commando Units

Newly raised units specialising in rapid deployment and specialised operations.

• Shaktiban Regiment

An artillery regiment equipped with drone, counter-drone and loiter munition capabilities, highlighting modern warfare trends.

• 61 Cavalry in Battle Gear

For the first time, members of the mounted 61 Cavalry are appearing in battle gear. Traditionally known for ceremonial attire, the regiment has long led the armed forces contingent at the parade, PTI reported.

The parade is being commanded by Lieutenant General Bhavnish Kumar, General Officer Commanding, headquarters Delhi area.

Adding an international dimension, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and European Council President Antonio Costa are attending as chief guests. An EU contingent with four flag bearers on three gypsy vehicles is also part of the ceremonial procession.

The theme of this year's Republic Day celebrations is 150 years of "Vande Mataram", with the Ministry of Culture's tableau featuring the complete version of the national song.

Republic Day, observed annually on January 26, commemorates the adoption of the Constitution, which came into force in 1950.