India’s 77th Republic Day celebrations witnessed a striking display of military strength as the Indian Army showcased its frontline attack helicopters during the ceremonial flypast. Over Kartavya Path, New Delhi, helicopters like Rudra, Apache AH-64E, and Light Combat Helicopter (LCH) Prachand roared across the sky, underlining India’s enhanced battlefield strike capabilities and preparedness for modern, high-intensity warfare.
Why in News?
On 26 January 2026, the Indian Army displayed its advanced attack helicopters Rudra, Apache AH-64E, and LCH Prachand during the Republic Day flypast, highlighting India’s growing combat aviation strength and high-altitude warfare readiness.
Rudra: Indigenous Battlefield Force Multiplier
- Rudra, the armed version of the Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH) Dhruv, is one of India’s key battlefield force multipliers.
- Designed to provide close air support, Rudra is capable of destroying enemy infantry, armoured vehicles, tanks, and hostile helicopters.
- When used in coordination with the Indian Air Force, artillery, and missile systems, Rudra significantly enhances battlefield dominance.
- Its agility and precision make it effective across diverse terrains, reinforcing India’s emphasis on indigenisation and self-reliance in defence aviation.
Apache AH-64E: Lethal Precision and Firepower
- The Apache AH-64E, the Indian Army’s first medium-lift attack helicopter, represents cutting-edge combat aviation.
- Equipped with Longbow Fire Control Radar, Hellfire missiles, 30-mm chain gun, rockets, and air-to-air missiles, the Apache delivers day-night, all-terrain precision strikes.
- It can destroy enemy tanks at ranges of up to 8 kilometres, making it a formidable asset in armoured warfare.
- During the flypast, the Apache symbolised India’s ability to integrate global technology into its defence architecture.
LCH Prachand: Master of High-Altitude Warfare
- The Light Combat Helicopter (LCH) Prachand is India’s first indigenously designed attack helicopter for high-altitude operations.
- Agile and lethal, Prachand is capable of operating in extreme conditions, including mountainous and border areas.
- It provides reconnaissance, rapid response, and precision fire support, significantly improving combat effectiveness in challenging terrains such as the Himalayas.
- Its presence in the flypast highlighted India’s preparedness for high-altitude conflict scenarios.
Leadership and Formation Details
- The impressive helicopter formation was led by Lieutenant Colonel Ahmed Pasha and Group Captain Arunva Pal, showcasing seamless coordination and professionalism.
- The Apache formation was commanded by Colonel Vikrant Sharma (Sena Medal), while the LCH Prachand was piloted by Lt Col T. T. Bharadwaj.
- Their leadership reflected the high standards of training and operational readiness within the Indian Armed Forces.
Republic Day 2026: Broader Military Display
- The grand celebrations were presided over by Droupadi Murmu at Kartavya Path.
- This year’s parade was notable for the phased Battle Array Format of the Indian Army, including aerial components.
- For the first time, the parade featured an integrated display of reconnaissance, mobility, and combat elements, reflecting India’s evolving warfighting doctrine.
Question
Q. Which helicopter showcased on Republic Day 2026 is specially designed for high-altitude warfare?
A. Rudra
B. Apache AH-64E
C. LCH Prachand
D. Cheetah