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77th Republic Day Parade 2026
The 77th Republic Day Parade on January 26 features multiple firsts, including the debut of the indigenous Suryastra rocket launcher system and the newly raised Bhairav Light Commando Battalion. It includes a 90-minute parade with 18 marching contingents and 13 military bands, and has dual chief guests Ursula von der Leyen and Antonio Costa.
77th Republic Day Parade (2026):
| Dimension | Key Details |
|---|---|
| Date and edition | 77th Republic Day Parade; held on January 26 (2026) |
| Parade duration and scale | ~ 90 minutes; comprises 18 marching contingents and 13 military bands |
| Chief guests | Ursula von der Leyen (European Commission President) and Antonio Costa (Prime Minister of Portugal) |
| Suryastra Rocket Launcher System | Provides for an indigenous universal rocket launcher; comprises deep-strike surface-to-surface capability up to 300 km |
| Bhairav Light Commando Battalion | Newly raised unit specialising in rapid deployment and light combat operations; provides for an emphasis on flexible modern warfare tactics |
| Shaktiban Regiment | Drones, counter-drone systems, and loiter munitions |
| Other defence assets | BrahMos missile system, Akash, Medium Range Surface-to-Air Missile (MRSAM), Advanced Towed Artillery Gun System (ATAGS), Dhanush artillery gun, and static drone displays |
| Flypast | Rafale jets, Apache helicopters, and other advanced aircraft |
| Unique animal contingents | Bactrian camels (two-humped, adapted to cold deserts), Zanskar ponies (native to Ladakh, hardy mountain animals), Army dogs, and raptors (kites) |
| Animal contingent leadership | Led by Captain Harshita Raghav of the Remount & Veterinary Corps |
| Mixed Scouts Contingent | Provides for a debut appearance in heavy thermal gear; symbolises resilience in extreme climates |
| Cultural tableaux | Celebrates 150 years of “Vande Mataram”; comprises state and ministry displays |