The Indian Army will showcase a combat-ready and future-oriented profile at the 77th Republic Day Parade on 26 January 2026 at Kartavya Path, unveiling a first-of-its-kind “Battle Array” formation that mirrors real-time battlefield deployment.
For the first time within parade parameters, the Army’s marching and mechanised columns will be organised in an offensive, combat-oriented sequence, offering a visual insight into how modern operations are planned and executed. Termed Ranbhoomi Vyuh Rachna, the Battle Array highlights an integrated force structure combining intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance units, mechanised forces, aviation assets, special forces, artillery, air defence and logistics.
TRIBUTE TO OPERATION SINDOOR
The formation reflects the Army’s ability to conduct data-driven operations, execute long-range precision strikes and operate deep inside enemy territory, while remaining protected under a layered air defence network. The display also pays tribute to the success of Operation SINDOOR, underlining jointness with sister services and the increasing induction of indigenous platforms under the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative.
Several units and platforms will make their Republic Day Parade debut, including the Bhairav Battalion, Shaktiban Regiment and Divyastra Battery. Indigenous systems such as the Advanced Towed Artillery Gun System, Universal Rocket Launcher System, unmanned ground vehicles, robotic dogs, drones, loitering munitions and rugged terrain transport systems will also be showcased. Specialist service animals, including Bactrian camels, Zanskar ponies, raptors and trained dogs, will be part of the display.
SIX MARCHING CONTINGENTS
The Army will field six marching contingents, comprising a mixed SCOUTS contingent in an operational role, the Rajput Regiment, Assam Regiment, Jammu and Kashmir Light Infantry, Regiment of Artillery and the Bhairav Battalion. These will be joined by contingents from the Indian Navy, Indian Air Force, Central Armed Police Forces and Delhi Police.
The mechanised and aviation segments will feature T-90 Bhishma and Arjun main battle tanks, BMP-II Sarath and NAMIS-II missile systems, along with helicopters including ALH Dhruv, Rudra, Apache AH-64E and LCH Prachand. Firepower systems on display will include ATAGS, Dhanush artillery guns, Suryastra URLS, BrahMos missiles and Akash and MRSAM air defence systems.
SUDARSHAN CHAKRA FORMATION
A special Indian Army tableau will depict an Integrated Operations Centre, showcasing joint planning, precision targeting and real-time air defence operations under the “Sudarshan Chakra” framework.
The parade will involve 6,065 participants and will be commanded by Lieutenant General Bhavnish Kumar. Twelve military bands and eight pipe bands will add ceremonial elements to the operational showcase.
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