The Indian Air Force (IAF) is set to conduct Exercise Vayushakti-26 at the Pokhran Air-to-Ground Range in Jaisalmer on February 27, 2026. This significant event aims to showcase the IAF’s combat readiness and technological superiority, along with its capability to deliver decisive outcomes across the spectrum of modern warfare.
Exercise Vayushakti-26 is designed to highlight the IAF’s role as a swift and formidable responder in times of conflict. The exercise will demonstrate the Air Force’s ability to rapidly neutralize threats, establish dominance in the operational environment, and transform tactical maneuvers into strategic successes. In addition to military operations, the exercise will also emphasize the IAF’s essential contributions to humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HADR), showcasing its capacity for rapid airlift, rescue, and evacuation operations both domestically and internationally.
A diverse array of aviation assets will be involved in full-spectrum operations during the exercise. Fighter aircraft like the Tejas, Rafale, Jaguar, Mirage 2000, and Sukhoi-30MKI will participate, along with transport aircraft such as the C-130J, C-295, and C-17. Rotary-wing platforms including Chetak, ALH Mk-IV, Mi-17 IV, Light Combat Helicopter, Apache, and Chinook will also play crucial roles, alongside Remotely Piloted Aircraft (RPA).
The exercise will feature advanced weapon systems, including Short Range Loitering Munitions (SRLM), Akash missiles, SpyDer air defense systems, and Counter-Unmanned Aerial Systems (CUAS). Operations will be conducted in various scenarios, encompassing daytime, dusk, and nighttime missions.
Moreover, Exercise Vayushakti-26 will reflect on the operational insights and achievements from Operation Sindoor, reinforcing the IAF’s dominance in airspace management, long-range precision targeting, and multi-domain operations. The exercise will place a strong emphasis on indigenous platforms and systems, aligning with the national initiative of Aatmanirbhar Bharat (Self-Reliant India).
Guided by the core principles of “Achook, Abhedya aur Sateek” (Accurate, Invincible, and Precise), this exercise aims to reassure the nation of the IAF’s unwavering preparedness and its pivotal role in enhancing India’s national security architecture.
