Over 130 IAF aircraft gather to demonstrate full-spectrum combat readiness in Pokhran
by Kim Hee-suPosted : March 1, 2026, 09:46Updated : March 1, 2026, 09:46
A formation of Alouette III helicopters soaring over the Pokhran range with the National Flag and IAF ensign in Jaisalmer, India on Feb. 28, 2026. Courtesy of the Indian Air Force
POKHRAN, INDIA, March 01 (AJP) - The Indian Air Force (IAF) successfully conducted its massive triennial firepower demonstration, 'Exercise Vayushakti-24', at the Pokhran Field Firing Range near Jaisalmer, Rajasthan. The exercise underscored the IAF's seamless combat readiness and its ability to deliver lethal strikes with surgical precision.
The event was graced by the Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces, Hon'ble President Droupadi Murmu, along with senior military leadership and civil dignitaries. The exercise operated under the IAF's core doctrine: "Achook, Abhedya aur Sateek" (Infallible, Invincible, and Precise).
A surface-to-air missile streaks into the sky to neutralize aerial threats at Pokhran Range in Jaisalmer, India on Feb. 28, 2026. Courtesy of the Indian Air Force
A target is obliterated in a massive fireball at Pokhran Range in Jaisalmer, India on Feb. 28, 2026. Courtesy of the Indian Air Force
This year’s Vayushakti stood out by moving beyond a simple display of ordnance. For the first time, the exercise was conducted with a defined operational storyline, simulating a live combat theatre. This allowed for a more realistic demonstration of how air power is integrated into modern, high-intensity warfare.
The exercise featured a formidable fleet of over 130 aircraft, including frontline fighters such as the Rafale, Su-30 MKI, Mirage-2000, MiG-29, Jaguar, and Hawk. Support assets like the C-17, C-130J, and C-295 transport aircraft, along with Apache and Chinook helicopters, played vital roles. The simultaneous precision strikes by the French-made Rafale and the Russian-origin Su-30 MKI highlighted the IAF's diverse and versatile aerial capabilities.
An IAF Chinook helicopter demonstrates rapid deployment by underslung-carrying an artillery gun at Pokhran Range in Jaisalmer, India on Feb. 28, 2026. Courtesy of the Indian Air Force
The IAF demonstrated its long-range strike capabilities using advanced air-to-ground precision-guided munitions. A key highlight was the integrated air defence showcase, featuring the Akash and Spyder surface-to-air missile systems, working in tandem with Indian Army air defence assets to neutralize simulated aerial threats.
The exercise also emphasized jointmanship and special operations. Garud Commandos and Para SF teams performed high-stakes insertions and simulated urban interventions. Rapid response missions, including assault landings at Advanced Landing Grounds (ALGs) and casualty evacuations (CASEVAC), were executed with clinical efficiency.
An IAF Su-30 MKI dispenses a volley of flares to decoy infrared-guided missiles at Pokhran Range in Jaisalmer, India on Feb. 28, 2026. Courtesy of the Indian Air Force
Mi-17 helicopters maneuvering through the smoke at low altitude during tactical operations at Pokhran Range in Jaisalmer, India on Feb. 28, 2026. Courtesy of the Indian Air Force
Spanning both day and night, Vayushakti-24 proved the IAF’s ability to maintain 24/7 dominance over the battlespace. As darkness fell, aircraft equipped with advanced night-vision and targeting systems struck targets with pinpoint accuracy, illuminating the desert sky and demonstrating all-weather operational superiority.
An IAF official stated, "Vayushakti-24 is a reaffirmation of our sovereign deterrence and our commitment to national security. By combining jointmanship with cutting-edge technology, we are fully prepared for the challenges of future warfare."
Local analysts noted that the exercise not only validated the operational effectiveness of indigenous weapon systems under the 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' (Self-Reliant India) initiative but also sent a strong strategic signal of regional stability and deterrence.
