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The Indian Air Force on Friday demonstrated a wide range of its offensive and defensive capabilities during the firepower exercise Vayu Shakti–2026 at the Pokhran Field Firing Range, Jaisalmer. The large-scale exercise, conducted in a simulated wartime environment, highlighted the force’s ability to execute swift, precise strikes and coordinated air operations.
More than 130 aircraft took part in the day-and-night drills, including frontline fighters such as Rafale, Su-30 MKI, Mirage-2000, MiG-29 and Jaguar, along with transport aircraft and attack helicopters. Fighter jets carried out precision strikes on designated targets using advanced air-to-ground weapons and long-range strike capabilities, underlining the IAF’s ability to deliver accurate and decisive firepower.
President Droupadi Murmu attended the firepower demonstration as the Chief Guest, accompanied by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and Chief of Defence Staff Anil Chauhan, along with senior military leadership. Earlier in the day, the President also undertook a sortie in the indigenous Light Combat Helicopter (LCH) Prachand at Jaisalmer, highlighting
India’s push for self-reliance in defence manufacturing.
For the first time, the exercise unfolded along a defined operational storyline, simulating a live combat theatre. The demonstration combined offensive air strikes, air defence missions, special operations and humanitarian assistance tasks, reflecting the IAF’s role as a multi-domain force and a rapid responder in crises.
The exercise began with the national song and anthem, followed by a ceremonial flypast by Chetak helicopters carrying the national flag, the Air Force ensign and the Operation Sindoor flag. A sonic boom by a Rafale fighter signalled the start of high-intensity combat missions.
Air defence capabilities were also on display through coordinated engagements involving airborne platforms and ground-based systems such as Akash and Spyder missile systems, supported by Army air defence assets including L-70 guns and M-777 artillery. The drills underscored the level of joint operations between air and ground forces.
Special operations formed a key segment of the exercise. As dusk set in, Garud commandos and Para Special Forces were inserted by Mi-17 helicopters to conduct simulated urban intervention and hostage rescue operations. It was followed by assault landings and evacuation missions by C-130J and C-295 aircraft from an advanced landing ground, demonstrating rapid response and casualty evacuation capabilities.
The night phase featured integrated air defence operations and precision strikes by multiple fighter platforms, showcasing the IAF’s ability to sustain combat operations around the clock. The exercise concluded with a symbolic ceasefire flypast by a C-17 aircraft and a drone display celebrating the force’s legacy and operational achievements.
During her visit, President Murmu flew in the indigenously developed LCH Prachand, with Chief of Air Staff ACM AP Singh accompanying in another helicopter. Developed by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited, the LCH Prachand is designed for high-altitude operations and can operate at elevations of around 5,000 metres, providing critical support in mountainous terrain, including along the Himalayas. Twin Shakti engines power the platform and incorporate features suited for modern combat roles.
Dhruv, Resham, Vashisht at Pokhran
