The Indian Air Force is gearing up to demonstrate its military strength and readiness in the Vayu Shakti 2026 exercise near the Pakistan border in Rajasthan. Scheduled for February 27 in Jaisalmer, this air exercise, inspired by Operation Sindoor, will feature a variety of fighter jets showcasing the force’s power and precision. Fighter aircraft like Rafale, Sukhoi-30, Tejas, MiG-29, Jaguar, Mirage-2000, and Hawk will participate, along with the Prachand attack helicopter.
The upcoming Vayu Shakti exercise will witness the participation of nearly all fighter aircraft and air defense systems that were part of Operation Sindoor. Notably, the MiG-21 aircraft, which has been retired from the IAF, will not be part of this military drill. Over 100 aircraft from the Air Force’s Western and South-Western Commands are expected to join the exercise, creating a simulated war environment monitored through the Air Force’s Integrated Air Command and Control System (IACCS).
The exercise will involve a range of aircraft and assets, including transport aircraft like C-130J and C-295, helicopters like Prachand, Chinook, Mi-17, and ALH, drones, and loitering munitions. The C-295 will perform a night assault landing drill for the first time, while the C-130J Super Hercules will demonstrate swift landing and take-off maneuvers. The exercise will also feature multiple layers of air defense, including anti-aircraft guns, anti-drone systems, and the Akash missile system.
