India’s 77th Republic Day parade at Kartavya Path will feature multiple first-time military displays, underlining the country’s growing defence preparedness and focus on indigenous capability development. Among the major debuts will be the Bhairav Light Commando Battalion and the Suryastra Universal Rocket Launcher System (URLS), both set to be showcased during the January 26 celebrations.

The parade, themed “150 Years of Vande Mataram,” will be attended by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and European Council President Antonio Costa as chief guests, reflecting the expanding strategic engagement between India and the European Union.

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Defence Platforms On Display 

Several frontline defence platforms will be on display, including the BrahMos missile, Akash air defence system, Medium Range Surface-to-Air Missile (MRSAM), Advanced Towed Artillery Gun System (ATAGS), Dhanush artillery gun, Shaktiban systems, and a static exhibition of select drones. The parade will be commanded by General Officer Commanding, Delhi Area, Lt Gen Bhavnish Kumar.

According to PTI, nearly 6,000 defence personnel will participate in the ceremony, as confirmed by Delhi Area Chief of Staff Major General Navraj Dhillon.

New Military Capabilities on Display

A key attraction this year will be the Suryastra rocket launcher, capable of conducting deep surface-to-surface strikes at ranges of up to 300 km, significantly enhancing India’s long-range offensive capabilities.

The Bhairav Light Commando Battalion, raised in October 2025, will make its Republic Day debut. The unit has been created to bridge the operational gap between infantry units and special forces, offering swift deployment in diverse combat environments.

Also appearing for the first time is the Shaktiban Regiment, which is equipped with drones, counter-drone systems and loitering munitions.

Parade Scale And Unique Features

The 90-minute parade will include 18 marching contingents and 13 military bands. In a notable departure from tradition, the elite 61 Cavalry regiment will march in combat gear instead of ceremonial attire. The regiment will demonstrate a phased battle deployment, showcasing reconnaissance, logistics and combat elements as they would appear in real operations.

A mixed scouts contingent dressed in extreme-weather combat clothing will also participate for the first time.

Flypast And Animal Units

The aerial display will feature 29 aircraft, including Rafale, Su-30, MiG-29, Apache helicopters, Light Combat Helicopters (LCH), P-8I maritime patrol aircraft, and transport platforms such as the C-130 and C-295, flying in coordinated formations.

Adding to the spectacle, animal contingents comprising Zanskar ponies, Bactrian camels, raptors and Army dogs will take part under the supervision of the Remount Veterinary Corps.

Emphasis on Indigenous Defence Growth

Beyond celebrating constitutional ideals and cultural diversity, the 2026 Republic Day parade will spotlight India’s progress in home-grown defence manufacturing, advanced combat systems and integrated military operations.

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With several new formations and technologies making their first public appearance, the event is expected to project a more modern and battle-ready image of India’s armed forces on the global stage.