Indian Air Force Demonstrates Comprehensive Capabilities During Vayushakti-26 Exercise
The Indian Air Force is set to conduct Exercise Vayushakti-26 at the Pokhran Air-to-Ground Range in Jaisalmer on February 27, 2026. This event will display the force's combat preparedness, technological advancements, and its capability to execute decisive operations across various dimensions of contemporary warfare.
The exercise, described as a testament to the IAF's role as the "first, fastest and fiercest responder," will demonstrate its ability to swiftly respond to threats, maintain dominance in operational settings from the start, and transform tactical maneuvers into strategic successes. In addition to combat demonstrations, Vayushakti-26 will also emphasize the Air Force's crucial involvement in humanitarian assistance and disaster relief, showcasing its proficiency in rapid airlift, rescue, and evacuation operations both domestically and internationally.
A broad range of operations will be showcased, involving fighter, transport, and helicopter platforms. The participating aircraft will include models such as Tejas, Rafale, Jaguar, Mirage 2000, Sukhoi‑30MKI, MiG‑29, Hawk, C‑130J, C‑295, and C‑17.
Helicopter assets for the exercise will consist of Chetak, ALH Mk‑IV, Mi‑17 IV, Light Combat Helicopter, Apache, and Chinook, alongside Remotely Piloted Aircraft (RPA).
The display will feature advanced weapon systems like Short Range Loitering Munitions (SRLM), Akash, SpyDer, and Counter-Unmanned Aerial Systems (CUAS), with mission scenarios executed during day, dusk, and night.
Exercise Vayushakti-26 will also focus on the insights and successes garnered from Operation Sindoor, reinforcing the IAF’s leadership in airspace control, long-distance precision strikes, and multi-domain operations. The event will highlight indigenous platforms and systems in line with the national initiative of Aatmanirbhar Bharat.
Guided by the principles “Achook, Abhedya aur Sateek” (Accurate, Invincible and Precise), the exercise seeks to assure the nation of the Indian Air Force’s steadfast readiness and its pivotal role in the country’s security framework.
