India’s military might on full display at 77th Republic Day celebrations on the line of duty

India on Monday celebrated its 77th Republic Day with a grand display of its military might on the line of duty, which included missiles, newly formed units, elite marching contingents and various indigenous weapon systems that were used during Operation Sindoor.

President of the European Council, Antonio Costa and President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen graced the ceremony as chief guests.

The overarching theme of the program at Kartavya Path, the centerpiece of the national capital, was 150 years of ‘Vande Mataram’.

The parade began with President Draupadi Murmu taking the salute, immediately after which she, Costa and von der Leyen, accompanied by the bodyguards of the Indian President, arrived on the ceremonial path in a traditional carriage.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Defense Minister Rajnath Singh, several other Union ministers, the country’s top military officers, foreign diplomats and senior officials were among the audience.

Around 100 artistes started the parade on the theme ‘Unity in Diversity’ with a grand rendition of musical instruments showcasing the unity and rich cultural diversity of the country.

After this the parade started with President Murmu taking the salute. The parade was led by the Parade Commander Lieutenant General Bhavneesh Kumar, General Officer Commanding, Delhi Area, a second generation officer.

For the first time, the parade showcased the Indian Army’s phased ‘Battle Array Format’ which also included an aerial component. It included a high mobility reconnaissance vehicle and India’s first indigenously designed armored light specialist vehicle.

The indigenous Dhruv Advanced Light Helicopter and its armed variant, Rudra, providing air support, were in Prahar formation, demonstrating battlefield shaping.

The combat elements then proceeded to the saluting platform with T-90 Bhishma and Main Battle Tank Arjun with air support from Apache AH-64E and Prachanda light combat helicopters.

Other mechanized columns included the BMP-II Infantry Combat Vehicle and the Nag Missile System (Tracked) Mk-2.

An EU military contingent, carrying military staff flags and flags of Operations Atalanta and Espides, the group’s naval operation, also joined the parade. This was the European Union’s first participation in such an event outside Europe.

Major weapon systems showcased in the parade included Supreet Universal Rocket Launcher System (URLS), BrahMos supersonic cruise missile and Akash missile system.