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News: The Indian Air Force will conduct a major firepower exercise called Exercise Vayu Shakti at the Pokaran Field Firing Range in Rajasthan.
About ‘Vayu Shakti 2026’ Exercise
- It is a major air combat exercise by Indian Air Force, modelled after Operation Sindoor.
- Location: The exercise will take place at the Pokaran Field Firing Range, Jaisalmer, Rajasthan.
- Scheduled date: 27 February 2026
- It is expected to be the Indian Air Force’s largest air combat drill of the year.
- Objective: To test operational strategy and weapon systems to strike simulated enemy targets.
- Participating Commands: Airbases and assets of the IAF’s Western and South Western Air Commands will participate in the exercise.
- Features:
- The exercise will be conducted in a simulated wartime scenario and monitored through the IAF’s Integrated Air Command and Control System (IACCS) for real-time coordination.
- Almost all frontline fighter aircraft and air defence systems that were part of Operation Sindoor will engage.
- It includes Rafale, Su-30 MKI, Tejas, MiG-29, Jaguar, Mirage-2000, and Hawk. (Note: The MiG-21 (retired) will not feature in the exercise for the first time.)
- Long-, medium-, and short-range radar inputs will be integrated to create a comprehensive air picture for offensive and defensive missions.
- Fixed-wing transport aircraft such as C-130J and C-295 will participate in operational tasks.
- Helicopter units, including Prachand, Chinook, Mi-17, and Advanced Light Helicopter platforms, will support mission operations.
- Drones and loitering munitions will be deployed for surveillance and strike roles.
- Multi-layered air defence systems, including Akash missiles, L-70 guns, and anti-drone platforms, will remain at operational readiness.
