The Indian Air Force (IAF) is set to showcase a remarkable feat during the Republic Day flypast, with the ‘Tangail’ formation featuring the heritage aircraft Dakota, flanked by two Dornier Do-228 aircraft flying on a blended mixture of Aviation Turbine Fuel and Biofuel, announced the IAF on Tuesday. This formation pays homage to a historic airdrop in 1971 during the India-Pakistan war.
The ‘Tangail’ formation will recreate the first airdrop of Indian security forces on hostile territory, which took place on December 11, 1971. This event holds significance as it marked a successful airdrop during the conflict between India and Pakistan. The unique blend of Aviation Turbine Fuel and Biofuel in the Dornier Do-228 aircraft adds a touch of eco-friendly innovation to this historic reenactment.
In addition to the aerial display, the Republic Day parade will feature cutting-edge made-in-India weapon systems and platforms from the Indian Army. Highlights include the LCH Prachand chopper, Pinaka multi-barrel rocket launchers, and Nag anti-tank missiles. The LCH Prachand, a HAL-manufactured Multi-Role Combat Helicopter, boasts ground attack and aerial combat capabilities, along with modern stealth features and robust armor protection.
The Nag anti-tank missile, developed by DRDO, is equipped with “Fire & Forget” and “Top Attack” capabilities, using passive homing guidance to defeat heavily fortified enemy tanks. The missile carrier NAMICA, an amphibious BMP II-based system, adds versatility to the Nag missile’s deployment.
The parade will also feature the latest armored and specialist vehicles developed by the Indian industry, including the Quick Fighting Reaction Vehicle, Light Specialist Vehicle, and the All-Terrain Vehicle. Notable weapon systems like the T-90 tank, BMP-2 infantry combat vehicle, Drone jammers, Advanced Sarvatra bridge, Medium Range Surface to Air Missile launcher, and multi-function radar will also be on display.
Highlighting indigenous defense capabilities, the Swathi Weapon Locating Radar, designed to locate guns, mortars, and rockets firing near own troops, will be showcased. The parade will also emphasize the growing role of women in the defense forces, with 60 women soldiers participating in the tri-services all-women marching contingent, representing the Army, Air Force, and Navy.
