Making its debut, the newly acquired multi-role Rafale fighters of the Indian Air Force will be flying over Rajpath as part of the flypast on the 72nd Republic Day.
Apart from Rafale jets, Sukhoi 30s and MiG 29s—the fighter jets that are part of the IAF's macular posture in the Ladakh sector — are among the 42 aircraft that are taking part in the flypast, according to IAF officials.
Eight Rafale jets have arrived in India from France, as part of 36 fighter jets deal. The remaining fighters are expected to join Indian Air Force by the end of this year. Rafale jets are inducted into the No 17 'Golden Arrows' Squadron at Ambala air force station. While second squadron of Rafales will be housed at Hashimara.
Aapache attack helicopter and Chinook strategic heavy lift choppers, which have proved their mettle in the swift mobilisation of troops and logistics during India-China military standoff, will also be part of the Republic Day celebrations.
In its first appearance at the at Republic Day celebrations, Rafale jets will be part of the Eklavya formation, which include one Rafale jet, two Jaguars and two MiG 29s. Besides, the French-manufactured Rafale will also carry out the 'Vertical Charlie' formation, to culminate the flypast. Named Brahmastra formation, the aircraft flies at low altitude, pulls up vertically and performs rolls before stabilising at higher altitude.
Flight Lieutenant Bhawana Kanth, one of the first women fighter pilots in the IAF, will be a part of the Republic Day parade, making her the first women pilot to take part in the parade. She will be part of the IAF's tableau, showcasing indigenous developed LCA, Light Combat Helicopter Rudra, Rohini radars and BrahMos.
In addition to the 42 aircraft, there will be four Army Aviation helicopters taking part in the parade alongwith newly acquired Apache and Chinook helicopters.
This year, the Republic Day celebrations are going to be a low key affair, with no chief guest. For the first time since its inception, the Republic Day parade at the historic Rajpath will culminate at the National Stadium instead of Red Fort and number of spectators has also been reduced drastically.