NEW DELHI: Newly inducted attack helicopter Apache and transport helicopter Chinook will debut in this year’s Republic Day flypast above the Rajpath.
“For the first time, three newly inducted Chinook flying in ‘Vic’ formation followed by five Apache in ‘arrowhead’ formation will be part of the air display this year,” IAF spokesperson Group Captain Anupam Banerjee said.
The Republic Day 2020 flypast will comprise of 41 aircraft of the IAF and four helicopters of the Indian Army’s aviation wing. Rafale fighters will be showcased as the part of IAF tableaux.
Sixteen fighters, 10 transport aircraft and 19 helicopters will take part in the flypast. While Jaguars, MiG 29s and Su 30 MKIs are fighters, transport aircraft will comprise C-130 J Super Hercules, C-17 Globemaster, and Dornier.
Mi-17 V5, ALH Dhruv and weaponised ALH Rudra will be part of helicopter air display. All aircraft will fly-in from the Rashtrapati Bhavan side and exit towards the India Gate at heights between 60 m and 300 m above ground level.
Flt Lt Shrikant Sharma will lead the IAF marching contingent comprising four officers and 144 air warriors. Warrant Officer Ashok Kumar will lead the Air Force Band contingent of 72 musicians and 3 drum majors.