For the first time, the Republic Day parade on Kartavya Path will showcase India’s powerful ballistic missile, ‘Pralay’. Deployed along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) to counter potential Chinese aggression, this indigenously developed missile is a testament to India’s advanced defense capabilities. Developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), ‘Pralay’ boasts a range of 200 to 500 kilometers. After successfully passing trials at Chandipur, Odisha, in August 2019, it was inducted into the armed forces. Following the 2020 Galwan Valley clashes, the missile was stationed along the LAC for strategic defense.
This year’s parade will mark the first public display of ‘Pralay,’ symbolizing India’s growing defense prowess.
Other Key Attractions: ‘Arjun’ and ‘Vijayanta Bhishma’
In addition to ‘Pralay,’ two major land-based attractions will take center stage:
‘Arjun’ Main Battle Tank: Fully developed with indigenous technology, it features a 120 mm rifle and exemplifies India’s strides in self-reliant defense production.
‘Bhishma’ (T-90S Tank): Adapted from the Russian T-90S tanks, it has been customized to meet Indian defense requirements, demonstrating the integration of global and local expertise.
‘Tejas’ Soars High:
While the land forces have their showpieces, the skies will belong to ‘Tejas’ Light Combat Aircraft (LCA). This indigenous aircraft is designed to replace the aging MiG-21 fighters in the Indian Air Force. ‘Tejas’ has successfully passed multiple rigorous trials, including mid-air refueling from the Russian IL-78 tanker in 2020 at an altitude of 20,000 feet, making India one of the elite nations capable of such operations. With a capacity to refuel nearly 19,000 liters mid-air, ‘Tejas’ stands as a symbol of India’s growing aerospace capabilities.
Joint Parade of the Armed Forces:
For the first time in the nation’s history, the Army, Navy, and Air Force will participate jointly in the Republic Day parade. Unlike previous years, where each force demonstrated its strength separately, this year will showcase a unified representation of India’s military might.
A Display of Self-Reliance and Power:
The 2025 Republic Day parade will highlight India’s technological and strategic advancements in defense. From the debut of ‘Pralay’ to the indigenously built ‘Arjun’ tank and ‘Tejas’ aircraft, it reflects India’s vision for self-reliance and global recognition as a military power.
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