Rafale fighter jets and attack helicopters are expected to join IAF Vayu Shakti in 2024.

On February 17, the Indian Air Force (IAF) is set to conduct the 2024 Vayu Shakti exercise in Pokhran, Rajasthan, showcasing its comprehensive arsenal. The event will feature a display of various frontline aircraft, including the Prachand attack choppers and Rafale fighter jets.

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Air Marshal AP Singh, the Vice Chief of Air Staff (VCAS), announced in Delhi that the exercise will incorporate the participation of all main fighter aircraft such as Su-30MKI, LCA Tejas, Mirage 2000, and MIG-29. The demonstration will involve firing missiles and bombs at predetermined targets to showcase the firepower capabilities of these aircraft.

The exercise will witness the involvement of 41 helicopters, five transport aircraft, and 77 fighter planes, demonstrating a range of air-to-ground, air-to-air, and surface-to-air weaponry. Notably, the ALH Dhruv, Pranchand attack helicopters, and LCA Tejas, all domestically manufactured, will play a crucial role in the exercise.

Air Marshal Singh highlighted the unique aspects of this year’s exercise, including the participation of the Prachand attack helicopters, Rafale fighter jets, and the use of the Samar surface-to-air weapon system. Airlifting Army guns will also be part of the demonstration.

During the exercise, an underslung Chinook helicopter will showcase the Ultra Light Howitzer, and the Army will engage in firing weapons from Rudra choppers. It’s noteworthy that this marks the first time the IAF will utilize the Samar surface-to-air weapon system, Prachand choppers, and Rafale fighter jets in the Vayu Shakti exercise.

The Vice Chief Air Marshal emphasized that indigenous capabilities, such as the ALH Dhruv, Pranchand attack helicopters, LCA Tejas, Vayu Shakti and the Akash and Samar surface-to-air weapon systems, will be prominently featured. The exercise aims to demonstrate the IAF’s combat and fire capabilities in a near-realistic scenario.

With a total of 121 aircraft participating, including the native Tejas, Prachand, and Dhruv, the exercise will span two hours and fifteen minutes, encompassing day, dusk, and night scenarios. The Rafale, Mirage-2000, Sukhoi-30 MKI, Jaguar fighter, Hawk advanced jet trainers, C-130J transport aircraft, Chinook, Apache, and Mi-17 helicopters are among the diverse array of aircraft set to be part of this comprehensive demonstration.

The IAF’s indigenous surface-to-air weapon systems, Akash and Samar, will showcase their ability to detect and neutralize unauthorized aircraft. Vayu Shakti The exercise also aims to highlight the collaborative efforts between the IAF and the Indian Army, marking a significant display of India’s military prowess and technological advancements.

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