By Ratnajyoti Dutta
POKHRAN (Rajasthan), 28 Feb: The Indian Air Force (IAF) on Friday demonstrated its combat readiness and operational strength during Vayushakti–2026 at the Pokhran Air-to-Ground Range in Jaisalmer district, showcasing precision strike capability and multi-domain warfare preparedness in the Thar desert.
Held in the presence of President Droupadi Murmu and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, the high-intensity exercise highlighted the IAF’s ability to conduct coordinated day, dusk and night operations, reinforcing its role as the nation’s “first, fastest and fiercest responder” during simulated conflict situations.
The exercise followed a structured operational storyline simulating an integrated combat theatre, as the desert skies echoed with the roar of aircraft and precision strikes demonstrating modern air power.
Frontline fighter aircraft, including Rafale, Sukhoi Su-30MKI, Tejas and Mirage-2000, carried out precision air-to-ground missions against simulated enemy targets. Transport aircraft such as C-130J, C-295 and C-17 executed rapid airlift operations, while helicopters — Apache, Chinook, Light Combat Helicopter (LCH), Mi-17 IV, ALH Mk-IV and Chetak — performed low-altitude rocket and gun firing drills, casualty evacuation and logistics support in challenging battlefield conditions.
IAF Chief Air Chief Marshal A. P. Singh and senior officials witnessed the two-and-a-half-hour day-to-night exercise conducted near the India-Pakistan border in the Thar desert.
Advanced weapon systems, including Short Range Loitering Munitions, Akash and SpyDer surface-to-air missile systems, and Counter Unmanned Aerial Systems, underscored India’s layered air defence architecture. Supported by drones and advanced radar networks, the operations demonstrated network-centric warfare capabilities and rapid response across diverse combat scenarios.
The IAF also simulated humanitarian assistance and disaster relief missions, highlighting its capability to conduct rescue and evacuation operations during domestic and overseas crises. Rajasthan Governor Haribhau Bagade and Union Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat were among the dignitaries present at the biennial airshow.
Officials said the extensive deployment of indigenous platforms during the flagship airshow reflected the push for Aatmanirbhar Bharat in defence production.
Guided by its core values — “Achook, Abhedya aur Sateek” — the exercise reaffirmed the IAF’s preparedness to safeguard India’s airspace and national security.
A concluding drone show paid tribute to the force’s legacy and technological evolution.
Photo credit: Sipra Das.
