India marked its 77th Republic Day in 2026 with a strong display of indigenous defence capabilities and advanced military technology at Kartavya Path in New Delhi. President Droupadi Murmu led the celebrations, with European Council President Antonio Costa and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen attending as Chief Guests.
This was the first Republic Day after Operation Sindoor, the recent military operation in which Indian forces carried out precision strikes on terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan. The parade reflected India’s growing focus on joint operations, indigenous weapons and technological self-reliance.
The ceremony began with Mi-17 helicopters flying in formation and showering flower petals over Kartavya Path. For the first time, the Indian Army showcased a phased battle array, including reconnaissance units and indigenously developed armoured vehicles.
A major highlight was the Tri-Services tableau titled Operation Sindoor: Victory Through Jointness. It showcased coordination between the Army, Navy and Air Force, underlining India’s shift towards integrated warfare. The display featured the M777 howitzers, Akash air defence system, Rafale and Su-30 aircraft armed with SCALP and BrahMos missiles, and the S-400 air defence system.
The Indian Air Force flypast included a special Sindoor formation of fighter aircraft, honouring its role during Operation Sindoor. The parade also featured marching contingents and the IAF band, with women Agniveers participating for the first time.
The Defence Research and Development Organisation presented the Long-Range Anti-Ship Missile, a hypersonic weapon that places India among a small group of nations with such capability. Other systems on display included the Akash missile system, T-90 Bhishma and Arjun tanks, infantry combat vehicles, artillery guns and unmanned and robotic systems.
The Indian Navy’s tableau highlighted India’s maritime strength and self-reliance, led by the aircraft carrier INS Vikrant and the sailing vessel INSV Tarini.
The presence of European Union leaders at the parade underlined the deepening India-EU partnership, ahead of the India-EU Summit and ongoing negotiations on a proposed free trade agreement.
The Republic Day parade combined military strength with diplomatic symbolism, projecting India’s confidence as a self-reliant and globally engaged nation.
