New Delhi, February 5: The Indian Air Force (IAF) is set to showcase its fighter jets near the Pakistan border once again. Following the successful Operation Sindoor, the IAF will deploy its full strength for a major air military exercise on February 27. This exercise, named “Vayu Shakti 2026,” will be the first and largest of the year, taking place in Jaisalmer, close to the Pakistan border.
According to defense officials, airbases and assets from the IAF’s Western and South Western Commands will participate in this exercise. All units have been fully activated, with over 100 aircraft expected to take part.
Nearly all fighter jets and air defense systems involved in Operation Sindoor will also participate in this exercise. The IAF’s Rafale, Sukhoi-30, Tejas, MiG-29, Jaguar, Mirage-2000, and Hawk aircraft are anticipated to demonstrate precise targeting capabilities. Notably, the MiG-21 will not be present, as it has been retired from service. Additionally, the attack helicopter Prachand will be seen launching rockets.
Defense officials stated, “This exercise will simulate a hypothetical war environment. The entire operation will be monitored and controlled through the IAF’s Integrated Air Command and Control System (IACCS).” It is worth mentioning that during Operation Sindoor, the IACCS monitored every Pakistani jet, missile, and drone.
The Indian Army’s Akash missile system was also integrated with the IACCS. Information from all high-power, long-range, medium-range, and short-range radars of the IAF will create a comprehensive air picture, enabling engagement with every aerial threat.
Alongside the fighter jets, fixed-wing transport aircraft units such as C-130J and C-295, helicopters including Prachand, Chinook, Mi-17, and ALH, drones, and munitions used in Operation Sindoor will also be utilized. For the first time, the C-295 will conduct night assault landing drills. Additionally, the C-130J Super Hercules will land on short runways to deploy Garud commandos into the war zone before taking off shortly after. During this operation, two attack helicopters will secure the entire area.
The IAF has informed Pakistan about this exercise through a NOTAM. Given Pakistan’s nature, the IAF has fully activated its air defense systems. According to defense officials, the IACCS will monitor the entire airspace for both attack and defense purposes.
Several layers of air defense have been established, including anti-aircraft guns, anti-drone systems, and operational readiness platforms. The Akash missile system and the Army’s L-70 guns will also be deployed. Notably, several VVIPs have been invited to the Vayu Shakti exercise, and around 40 officials from friendly embassies in Delhi are expected to attend.
–