Indian Air Force power exercise Vayu Shakti which took place at the Pokhran range near Jaisalmer successfully demonstrated its offensive and defensive capabilities in the sky scheduled for today in the evening.
According to the Ministry of Defence (MoD) , “Pokhran range near Jaisalmer reverberated with thunderous explosions and resounding applause, on 17 February 2024, as the Indian Air Force showcased its offensive capabilities through an enthralling and formidable display of its firepower”.
Chief of Defence Staff, General Anil Chauhan and other delegatories, graced the occasion as the Chief Guest, underscoring the significance of the display.
The live event was also broadcasted on various social media platforms, including the official twitter(‘X’) handle of Indian Air Force which allowed every citizen to witness the event from their screens.
This drill began with three Chetak helicopters hoisting the National Flag and the Air Force banner, accompanied by the National Anthem. The event not only commemorated India’s military supremacy, but also proved the dedication and talent of the men and women of the Indian Air Force.
In honor of India’s pledge to self-reliance (Atma Nirbhar Bharat), the Tejas aircraft was prominently focused and displayed its indigenous capabilities. Additionally, a long-range unmanned drone highlighting its accuracy by demolishing a simulated enemy radar post.
The event’s highlight was the display of different fighter aircraft, including the Rafale, Su-30 MKI, MiG-29, Mirage-2000, Tejas, and Hawk, launching precision strikes on simulated enemy targets on the ground and in the air. The indigenous Tejas aircraft displayed its swing-role capability, destroying both airborne and ground targets with precision-guided missiles.
The exercise also featured several firsts, such as the Apache attack helicopter striking targets with air-to-ground guided rockets and the Chinook helicopters indicating fast deployment capabilities by airlifting the Indian Army’s M-777 Ultra-Light Howitzers.
With the end of the event special forces exhibited urban incursion techniques, while indigenous Air Defence Systems (Akash and SAMAR missile systems) implying their capabilities by attacking multiple aerial targets. Nighttime activities showed the Indian Air Force’s capabilities, with the indigenous Light Combat Helicopter ‘Prachand’ neutralizing designated targets with rockets.
The event concluded with a free-fall drop by the Akash ganga team and flares dispensed by C-130J aircraft. A tri-service band added to the grandeur of the event, displayed the spirit of cooperation across the armed forces.
Approximately 50 tons of ordnance were dropped during the two-hour display, covering an area of two square kilometers and showed the Indian Air Force’s offensive lethality and precision targeting capabilities.