IAF's Firepower at Vayu Shakti 2026 in Pokhran: Rafales, Tejas, Apaches to Showcase India's Air Combat Prowess

The Indian Air Force (IAF) is prepared to display its operational prowess as it will conduct its mega operational demonstration, Exercise Vayu Shakti, in February at Pokhran, near the border with Pakistan. Simulating an active war scenario the exercise will involve the deployment of over 275 weapon systems and wherein nearly 12,000 kg of explosives will be used to exercise.Air Marshal Nagesh Kapoor, Vice Chief of Air Staff said, “We are going to showcase precision targeting capabilities. A target will be earmarked, aircraft will release the weapons, and the target will be engaged with accuracy.”More than 120 IAF platforms -- including fighter jets, transport aircraft, and helicopters -- will participate in the drill.“For the first time, two

new weapons systems will be showcased, and the number of indigenous weapons on display will be significantly higher”, he added.In addition to showcasing its operational strength, the IAF will present glimpses of Operation Sindoor during the day-long exercise.Sharing details of the aerial assets involved, Wing Commander AB Vasane said that 77 fighter aircraft, 43 helicopters, and eight transport aircraft will take part in the exercise.Fighter aircraft participating include Rafale, Tejas, Su-30 MKI, MiG-29, Jaguar, and Mirage-2000.Helicopters such as Apache, Mi-17, Mi-17 V5, Chinook, Light Combat Helicopter (LCH), and Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH) will also be deployed. Transport aircraft including the C-17, C-295, and C-130J will participate in the drill.The C-295 transport aircraft will participate in an operational role for the first time.Air defence systems such as Akash, Spyder, and L-70 guns, along with Special Forces units, will provide combat support.Adding further Wing Commander Vasane stated that the integrated operations will involve the Indian Army deploying M-777 howitzers, L-70 guns, and Special Forces troops.The aerial platforms will operate from multiple bases including Jaisalmer, Phalodi, Uttarlai, Jodhpur, Hindan, and Vadodara.“The objective of the exercise is to demonstrate the Indian Air Force’s capabilities and combat preparedness, instil confidence among citizens, and motivate youth to join the Air Force,” Vasane said.Reported by Mayank Singh