Indian Air Force Demonstrates Combat Readiness at Vayushakti-26 Exercise
February 27, 2026, Pokhran, Rajasthan – The Indian Air Force (IAF) is conducting a major exercise, Vayushakti-26, at the Pokhran Air-to-Ground Range in Rajasthan, showcasing its combat prowess and operational readiness. The exercise, a biennial event, is being closely watched by neighboring countries, particularly in light of past conflicts with Pakistan.
Operational Readiness Validated
The IAF completed a full dress rehearsal on February 26, 2026, validating all operational parameters. According to IAF officials, all targets were effectively neutralized during the rehearsal. The exercise highlights the IAF’s capability to rapidly respond to threats, dominate the operational environment, and achieve strategic outcomes. Source
Platforms and Weapon Systems on Display
Vayushakti-26 features a full spectrum of operations involving various fighter, transport, and helicopter platforms. These include the Tejas, Rafale, Jaguar, Mirage-2000, Sukhoi-30MKI, MiG-29, Hawk, C-130J, C-295, C-17, Chetak, ALH MK-IV, Mi-17 IV, LCH, Apache, Chinook, and Remotely Piloted Aircraft (RPA). Source
Advanced weapon systems such as Short Range Loitering Munitions (SRLM), Akash, SpyDer, and Counter Unmanned Aerial Systems (CUAS) are also being demonstrated during day, dusk, and night missions. Source
Historical Context: Pokhran and Nuclear Testing
The Pokhran Test Range, where Vayushakti-26 is taking place, is historically significant as the site of India’s nuclear weapons tests. Pokhran-II, a series of five nuclear weapon tests, was conducted in May 1998 as part of Operation Shakti. These tests demonstrated India’s capability to build both fission and fusion bombs, with yields up to 45 kilotons of TNT. Source
Beyond Combat: Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief
The exercise also provides a glimpse into the IAF’s role in humanitarian assistance and disaster management, showcasing its ability to provide rapid airlift, rescue, and evacuation services both within India and abroad. Source