India-made platforms take centre stage during parade

Indian-made platforms - from main battle tanks to self-propelled howitzers, helicopters and tactical missiles - took the centre stage at this year's Republic Day parade. New additions such as a mobile network centre and a range of autonomous unmanned systems currently being developed with the help of start-ups and innovators were also showcased.

The parade took place on a cold, foggy morning here, which cleared up towards noon, giving spectators a view of the multi-aircraft fly past. The fly past included the Netra Aerial Early Warning and Control Aircraft - used extensively during the post-Balakot standoff with Pakistan in 2019.

The contingents of the three armed forces, paramilitary forces and heavy military equipment rolled down a revamped Central Vista in presence of President Droupadi Murmu, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the chief guest, Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi, and others.


The Army chose to display only indigenously manufactured systems, including Arjun Main Battle Tank, NAG missile system (anti-tank), K 9 Vajra self-propelled howitzer and indigenous short-span bridge laying systems. Also, on display was the new Quick Reaction Fighting Vehicle, procured specially for troops in eastern Ladakh.

The traditional 21-gun salute at the beginning of the parade was given with 105-mm Indian Field Guns, replacing the vintage 25 pounder gun.

The parade included several indigenous missiles as well. No nuclear capable system was on display. The Brahmos supersonic tactical missile system and Akash anti-aircraft missile system were also part of the parade.

The Navy too showcased Indian platforms, with a model of the new indigenous Nilgiri Class of ship as well as the advanced light helicopter Dhruv on display. The Navy's tableau also had models of autonomous unmanned systems being indigenously developed under the defence ministry's iDEX-Sprint Challenge.

The Air Force's tableau had the upcoming light combat aircraft Tejas MK-II, in-service light combat helicopter 'Prachand', airborne early warning & control aircraft Netra and C-295 transport aircraft.

Defence Research & Development Organisation tableau displayed underwater surveillance platforms, land surveillance, communication and neutralising platforms, quick reaction surface-to-air missile weapon system and battery multifunction radar and missile launcher vehicle on its.