What is Exercise VayShakti?
Exercise VayShakti is a major combat drill conducted by the Indian Air Force.
It will be held on 27 February 2026 at the Pokhran Air-to-Ground Range in Rajasthan, with rehearsal on 24 February 2026.
Why the exercise is important
The drill will showcase the success of Operation Sindoor and demonstrate the Air Force’s strong control over national airspace.
It reflects the ability of the Air Force to carry out precise strikes and coordinated operations with ground forces.
Key demonstrations during the exercise
Precision targeting, joint operations with the Indian Army, and multi-domain warfare capability will be displayed.
Humanitarian assistance and disaster relief roles such as rescue, evacuation, and rapid airlift will also be shown.
Advanced systems including loitering munitions, Akash missiles, SpyDer air defence, and anti-drone technologies will be featured.
Participation and assets involved
More than 120 defence assets will take part in the exercise.
These include dozens of fighter aircraft, helicopters, and transport aircraft.
Fighter platforms such as Rafale, Sukhoi, Mirage-2000, MiG-29, Jaguar, and LCA Tejas will participate.
Connection with Operation Sindoor
The exercise will highlight the operational success and precision capability demonstrated during Operation Sindoor.
It sends a clear message of zero tolerance toward threats and terrorism.
Special features of the drill
Operations will be demonstrated during day, dusk, and night conditions.
The exercise will underline joint military readiness and crisis response capability within India and abroad.
Overall message
Exercise VayShakti shows that the Indian Air Force is fully prepared to defend the country’s airspace and respond effectively to any challenge.
IAS-2026 - OPTIONAL / GEOGRAPHY / PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION / SOCIOLOGY / ANTHROPOLOGY / ORIENTATION ON 03 & 04-10-2025 
