Republic Day 2026: India will mark its 77th Republic Day with several new military additions at the grand parade on Kartavya Path in New Delhi. A new rocket launcher system called ‘Suryastra’ and the recently formed Bhairav light commando battalion will be among the highlights of this year’s celebrations.
A wide range of defence equipment will also be displayed. These include the BrahMos missile, Akash missile system, Medium Range Surface-to-Air Missile (MRSAM) system, Advanced Towed Artillery Gun System (ATAGS), Dhanush artillery gun, Shaktiban, and a static showcase of various drones. The parade will be commanded by the General Officer Commanding, Delhi Area, Lt Gen Bhavnish Kumar.
Around 6,000 defence personnel will take part in the parade, according to PTI, which quoted Delhi Area Chief of Staff Major General Navraj Dhillon.
This year’s chief guests are European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and European Council President Antonio Costa. The theme of the parade is ‘150 years of Vande Mataram’.
Republic Day 2026: New Highlights at the Parade
Several elements will appear for the first time. Captain Harshita Raghav, who will lead the Remount Veterinary Corps (RVC) contingent, said the new additions include the ‘Suryastra’ rocket launcher, the Bhairav light commando battalion, four Zanskar ponies, two Bactrian camels, four raptors (kites), and Army dogs.
The Universal Rocket Launcher System (URLS) ‘Suryastra’ has deep-strike ability and can carry out surface-to-surface attacks up to 300 km.
The Bhairav light commando battalion, formed around October 2025, made its first public appearance at the Army Day parade in Jaipur on January 15. It has been introduced to “bridge the gap” between regular infantry and special forces.
Republic Day 2026: Battle Formation Display
For the first time, the 61 Cavalry contingent will move in a ‘phased battle array formation’. Soldiers will appear in battle gear along with key Army equipment, especially indigenous platforms.
In this formation, troops will march the way forces operate during real combat. The sequence will begin with reconnaissance units, followed by other military divisions such as logistics and support teams. Personnel walking alongside the equipment will also wear full battle gear.
Traditionally, the 61 Cavalry leads the parade in ceremonial dress with distinctive headgear. This year marks its first appearance in combat gear.
The Shaktiban regiment, newly formed within the artillery and equipped with drones, counter-drone systems, and loitering munitions, will also participate in the parade for the first time.
A mixed scouts contingent wearing heavy thermal clothing will make its debut as well.
Republic Day 2026: Flypast Display
The flypast will take place in two segments and feature 29 aircraft. These include Rafale, Su-30, P8I, MiG-29, Apache, Light Combat Helicopter (LCH), Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH), Mi-17 helicopters, and transport aircraft such as the C-130 and C-295, flying in different formations.
