Republic Day 2026: Kartavya Path to Transform into Live Battlefield-Style Military Showcase
Missiles, artillery, and troops to move in operational formations for an immersive display of India’s armed forces
New Delhi: This Republic Day, Kartavya Path will take on the atmosphere of a live battlefield as India’s ceremonial boulevard transforms into a dynamic military showcase. Departing from tradition, missiles, artillery systems, and soldiers will advance not as static displays but in operational formations that replicate real battlefield deployment, giving spectators an immersive view of modern military sequences.
Republic Day 2026:At the heart of the parade will be a new “Phased Battle Array Formation”, where the armed forces’ main weapons will move forward in operational order. Reconnaissance units will lead the column, followed by logistics units and combat platforms, with soldiers marching in full combat gear.
Defense Secretary R.K. Singh highlighted that the 77th Republic Day parade will feature “several first-time displays.” He explained that the main indigenous weapon sequences will begin with reconnaissance units, followed by logistics elements. “This new format aims to make the parade more engaging for viewers. The aerial component will also be integrated into the battle array formation,” Singh added.
Republic Day 2026:Some of the country’s most powerful indigenous systems will be on display, including BrahMos missiles, Akash air defense systems, medium-range surface-to-air missiles, advanced Towed Artillery Gun Systems, Dhanush artillery, and Shaktibaan, along with select drone demonstrations.
The spectacle will extend into the sky as frontline fighters and support aircraft fly in coordinated formations. Rafale and Su-30 fighters, MiG-29 jets, P-8I maritime patrol aircraft, Apache attack helicopters, light combat helicopters, advanced light helicopters, Mi-17 helicopters, and C-130 and C-295 transport planes will share the aerial space.
Republic Day 2026:The parade will also feature 18 marching contingents, 13 military bands, animal units, and the debut of the Bhairav Battalion. Traditional “VVIP” labels on barricades have been replaced with river names, and seats for the Beating Retreat ceremony will now be named after musical instruments, adding a fresh thematic touch to the event.
