Suryastra rocket launcher system, Bhairav Battalion, Bactrian camels among many firsts at today's R-Day parade

India showcases its military might and cultural heritage in the ceremonial event; dominant theme of this year's parade was 150 years of 'Vande Mataram'

The new rocket launcher system 'Suryastra', newly raised Bhairav light commando battalion, Zanskar ponies and Bactrian camels were among the new additions to the Republic Day parade on Kartavya Path in New Delhi on Monday.

The dominant theme of this year's parade was 150 years of 'Vande Mataram'.

The defence assets showcased during the parade included BrahMos, Akash missile system, Medium Range Surface-to-Air Missile system, Advanced Towed Artillery Gun System, Dhanush artillery gun, Shaktiban and a static display of drones.

About 6,000 defence personnel took part in the parade.

Marking a first, the contingent members of the mounted 61 Cavalry were seen in battle gear, and key Army assets, including indigenous platforms accompanied with personnel, rolled down the Kartavya Path in a "phased battle array formation".

The 61 Cavalry, known for its imposing presence as its members wear ceremonial uniform and a striking headgear, has traditionally been the leading contingent of the armed forces in the ceremonial parade.

Shaktiban Regiment

The parade also saw the debut of the Shaktiban Regiment, which has been set up in the artillery.

The 77th Republic Day Parade also saw many other firsts. A mixed scouts contingent, seen in their heavy thermal gear, was part of the parade for the first time.

Bhairav light commando battalion had also made its Army Day Parade debut on January 15 in Jaipur. The battalion was raised around 2025.

Eighteen marching contingents and 13 bands took part in the parade that lasted a little over 90 minutes.

An animal contingent comprising Zanskar ponies, Bactrian camels, raptors and dogs were also part of the parade.

Military might and cultural heritage

India showcased its military might and cultural heritage in the ceremonial event.

Akash weapon system and MRSAM system were fielded in this year's parade. Universal Rocket Launcher System URLS 'Suryastra', which can carry out surface-to-surface strikes up to 300 km, was showcased for the first time in the parade.

In a new format introduced this year, key Army assets, including indigenous platforms, accompanied by personnel, rolled down the Kartavya Path in a "phased battle array formation".

The aerial component was also shown in a "battle array formation".

The fly-past at the ceremonial event, held in two parts, showcased 29 aircraft in all, including Rafale, Su-30, P8I, MiG-29, Apache, Light Combat Helicopter, Advanced Light Helicopter, Mi-17 helicopters in different formations and transport aircraft C-130 and C-295.

President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, and President of the European Council, Antonio Costa, were the chief guests at the parade.

(With PTI inputs)