Akash, BrahMos, Arjun and More: Inside India’s Grand Defence Display at 77th Republic Day Parade

India is celebrating its 77th Republic Day on Monday (January 26) with the grand parade along Kartavya Path, combining ceremony with a display of military readiness, technological progress and cultural

diversity. This year, the parade is expected to place a strong focus on India’s evolving defence capabilities, with newly raised units, major weapon systems and joint-force operations taking centre stage.The parade will be presented in a “phased battle array formation”, a combat-sequenced display designed to mirror how forces are deployed during real military operations. Infantry units, mechanised columns, artillery, missile systems and aerial assets will appear in a carefully planned sequence, offering spectators a rare glimpse of how different arms of the military operate together.A defence tableau themed ‘Victory Through Jointness’ will roll down Kartavya Path, displaying the military’s focus on integration across the Army, Navy and Air Force.Also Read | Republic Day Parade 2026 To See Many Firsts: Suryastra System, Bhairav Battalion, Bactrian Camels

From BrahMos to hypersonic missiles

A wide range of major weapon platforms will be showcased, presenting a snapshot of India’s defence inventory. Among the systems expected on display are the BrahMos and Akash missile systems, the Medium Range Surface-to-Air Missile (MRSAM), Advanced Towed Artillery Gun System (ATAGS), Dhanush artillery gun, Divyastra Battery, and a static display of drones.

Making its debut at the parade will be the Universal Rocket Launcher System (URLS) Suryastra, which as per report can carry out surface-to-surface strikes up to 300 km. Mechanised columns will feature Arjun main battle tanks and T-90 Bhisma tanks, while Apache AH-64E and Prachand light combat helicopters will provide air support overhead.

The Defence Research and Development Organisation will also showcase its Long Range Anti-Ship Hypersonic Missile (LR-AShM), described as a hypersonic glide missile capable of engaging both static and moving targets with various payloads.

Air power and Army restructuring take centre stage

Air power is set to be one of the most anticipated highlights, with seven fighter jets flying in the new Sindoor formation, representing the Indian Air Force’s role in Operation Sindoor. The formation will include two Rafales, two MiG-29s, two Sukhoi-30s and a Jaguar, and the flypast will feature a total of 29 aircraft across fighter jets, transport aircraft and helicopters. Helicopter formations will include the Dhruv Advanced Light Helicopter and its armed version, Rudra, flying in Prahar formation.

The parade will also showcase newly raised Bhairav light commando units and the Shaktiban Regiment, equipped with drone, counter-drone and loiter munition capabilities. Members of the mounted 61 Cavalry will appear in battle gear for the first time, a departure from their traditional ceremonial uniform.The parade will be commanded by Lieutenant General Bhavnish Kumar, General Officer Commanding, headquarters Delhi area. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and European Council President Antonio Costa will attend as chief guests, with an EU contingent joining the ceremonial procession. The overarching theme for this year is 150 years of “Vande Mataram”, commemorating the national song alongside India’s adoption of its Constitution in 1950.