Fact check: True, newly inducted Rafale jets to be showcased at Republic day parade
India will be celebrating its 72nd Republic day on January 26, 2021. Armed forces will showcase the military power...
By Satya Priya BN Published on 20 Jan 2021 7:19 AM GMT
India will be celebrating its 72nd Republic day on January 26, 2021. Armed forces will showcase the military power during the parade at Rajpath.
Amidst all the preparations, there are several speculations making rounds. Some reports say Rafale jets are also going to be featured at the parade.
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Fact Check:
The claim that the Rafale jets are going to be featured in the Republic day parade is TRUE.
According to the report in ANI, Rafale fighter planes, the latest multi-role fighter aircrafts acquired by the Indian Air force, will be showcased during the republic day parade this year. Some new formations will also be seen for the first time this year.
"The flypast will culminate with a single Rafale aircraft carrying out a 'vertical charlie' formation," said IAF spokesperson Wing Commander Indranil Nandi. One Rafale will also lead an "Eklavya formation" with two Jaguars and two MiG-29s fighters.
In its first appearance at Republic Day celebrations, Rafale jets will be part of the Eklavya formation, which includes one Rafale jet, two Jaguars, and two MiG 29s. Besides, the French-manufactured Rafale will also carry out the 'Vertical Charlie' formation, to culminate the flypast. Named Brahmastra formation, the aircraft flies at low altitude, pulls up vertically and performs rolls before stabilizing at higher altitude.
Along with other attractions, the Dakota aircraft which played an important role during the 1971 war, will be part of the display. A Bangladesh military contingent is also participating to commemorate the 50th year of Indian victory over Pakistan.
The IAF's vintage Dakota aircraft, flanked by two Mi-17 1V helicopters will be flying in Rudra formation when the Bangladesh contingent will be marching past President Ram Nath Kovind's dais.
Hence, the claim that the newly acquired Rafale jets will be showcased at Republic day parade is TRUE.
