IAF to Conduct Exercise Vayushakti-26 at Pokhran

Full-Spectrum Firepower Display Highlights Air Combat Readiness

The Indian Air Force will conduct Exercise Vayushakti-26 at the Pokhran Air-to-Ground Range on 27 February 2026 . The large-scale firepower exercise will demonstrate the IAF’s operational preparedness, precision strike capability, and rapid-response effectiveness across varied combat scenarios.

Full-Spectrum Combat Operations

Vayushakti-26 will feature integrated participation from fighter, transport, helicopter, and remotely piloted platforms. Key combat aircraft such as Tejas, Rafale, Sukhoi-30MKI, Mirage-2000, Jaguar, MiG-29, and Hawk will execute coordinated strike and support missions. Strategic and tactical lift platforms including C-130J, C-295, and C-17 will showcase rapid mobility and deployment capabilities.

Rotary-wing assets such as ALH MK-IV, Mi-17 IV, Light Combat Helicopter (LCH), Apache, and Chinook helicopters will conduct assault, logistics, and battlefield support operations.

Advanced Weapon Systems Deployment

The exercise will highlight modern weaponry and air defence systems, including Short Range Loitering Munitions (SRLM) , Akash surface-to-air missiles, SpyDer air defence systems, and Counter Unmanned Aerial Systems (CUAS). Missions will be conducted under day, dusk, and night conditions, simulating realistic high-intensity conflict environments.

Multi-Domain and Humanitarian Role

Beyond combat demonstrations, the exercise will underline the IAF’s dual operational role. Rapid airlift, evacuation, and disaster-response missions will emphasise its contribution to humanitarian assistance and national resilience.

Indigenous Capability Emphasis

Aligned with Aatmanirbhar Bharat , Vayushakti-26 will spotlight indigenously developed platforms and systems, reinforcing defence self-reliance and technological maturity.

Exam-Focused Points

• Vayushakti conducted at Pokhran Range, Rajasthan

• Demonstrates IAF firepower & readiness

• Akash: Indigenous SAM system

• Includes day & night combat simulations

• Supports Aatmanirbhar Bharat in defence