The Indian Air Force put on display its formidable combat capabilities during Exercise Vayu Shakti-2024 held at the Pokhran range near Jaisalmer on Saturday. This demonstration of air power was attended by Chief of Defence Staff, Gen Anil Chauhan, who graced the event as the chief guest.
The commencement of the spectacle saw three Chetak helicopters gracefully carrying the National Flag and Air Force ensign, accompanied by the playing of the National Anthem. Following this, a Rafale aircraft executed a precisely timed 'Sonic Boom', while two Jaguar aircraft conducted detailed surveying of the area.
Themed 'Lightning Strike from the Sky', the exercise saw a display involving over 120 aircraft, showcasing the Indian Air Force's offensive capabilities, both in daylight and at night. Various fighter aircraft including the Rafale, Su-30 MKI, MiG-29, Mirage-2000, Tejas, and Hawk were involved in carrying out precision strikes on simulated enemy targets on the ground and in the air.
The indigenous Tejas aircraft demonstrated its versatility by engaging both aerial and ground targets, while a long-range unmanned drone displayed remarkable accuracy in neutralizing a simulated enemy radar site. Combat support operations included transport aircraft dropping supplies and executing assault landings, while the Apache attack helicopter engaged targets with precision-guided missiles.
Joint operations with the Army showcased weaponized helicopters wreaking havoc on simulated enemy targets, while the IAF Chinook helicopters exhibited swift deployment by airlifting the Indian Army's M-777 Ultra-Light Howitzers.
As night descended, special forces conducted urban intervention exercises, accompanied by indigenous Air Defence Systems that effectively destroyed aerial targets. The Light Combat Helicopter 'Prachand' efficiently neutralized designated targets with rockets, and heavy caliber weapons dropped by Jaguar and Su-30 MKI aircraft.
Additionally, Remotely Piloted Aircraft provided real-time streaming of bomb damage assessments, enhancing situational awareness. The event also featured a free fall drop by the Akashganga team, flare dispensing by C-130J aircraft, and a Tri-service band performance.
A remarkable highlight of the exercise was the dropping of about 50 tonnes of artillery over a two square km area in just two hours, showcasing the Indian Air Force's offensive prowess and precision targeting capability.
