IAF to Showcase Power at Exercise Vayushakti-26

The Indian Air Force (IAF) will conduct Exercise Vayushakti-26 at the Pokhran Air-to-Ground Range in Jaisalmer on 27 February 2026. The large-scale firepower demonstration will underline the IAF’s readiness as the nation’s first, fastest and fiercest responder. The exercise aims to exhibit rapid response capability, precision strike power and operational dominance across the full spectrum of aerial warfare.

Vayushakti is among the IAF’s most significant operational showcases, highlighting its ability to transform tactical actions into strategic outcomes in high-intensity scenarios.

Comprehensive Air Combat Demonstration

The exercise will feature full-spectrum operations involving fighter, transport and helicopter platforms. Frontline combat aircraft including Tejas, Rafale, Jaguar, Mirage-2000, Sukhoi-30MKI, MiG-29 and Hawk will participate in coordinated strike missions. Strategic and tactical airlift platforms such as C-130J, C-295 and C-17 will demonstrate rapid mobility operations.

Rotary-wing assets including Chetak, ALH MK-IV, Mi-17 IV, Light Combat Helicopter (LCH), Apache and Chinook helicopters will execute assault and support roles. Remotely Piloted Aircraft will also undertake surveillance and strike missions.

Advanced Weapon Systems on Display

The IAF will deploy modern weapon systems such as Short Range Loitering Munitions (SRLM), Akash surface-to-air missile systems, SpyDer air defence systems and Counter Unmanned Aerial Systems (CUAS). Missions will be conducted during day, dusk and night conditions to simulate realistic combat environments.

The exercise will further highlight the operational achievements of Operation Sindoor, underscoring the IAF’s capability in airspace dominance, long-range precision targeting and multi-domain warfare.

Humanitarian and Strategic Roles

Beyond combat operations, Vayushakti-26 will showcase the IAF’s role in humanitarian assistance and disaster management. Demonstrations will include rapid airlift, evacuation and rescue missions within India and abroad, reinforcing the force’s dual capability in both military and civil contingencies.

Important Facts for Exams

• Exercise Vayushakti is conducted at Pokhran Air-to-Ground Range in Rajasthan.
• Akash is an indigenously developed surface-to-air missile system.
• Rafale and Sukhoi-30MKI are key frontline fighter aircraft of the IAF.
• ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ promotes indigenous defence manufacturing.

Reaffirming Air Power Under ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’

Guided by the core values “Achook, Abhedya aur Sateek”, the exercise will emphasise indigenous capability and self-reliance in defence production. By integrating advanced platforms and home-grown systems, the Indian Air Force seeks to reassure the nation of its preparedness and reaffirm its central role in India’s national security architecture.