Army Day 2026: Madras Regiment warrior dance, BrahMos, T-90 tank to M777 showcased in grand parade; Watch photos and videos

On the occasion of the 78th Army Day, the Indian Army hosted a grand public parade in Jaipur, marking the first time the celebrations were held outside a cantonment area in the city. The parade showcased the Army’s operational readiness, modern combat systems, and cultural diversity.

Bhairav Battalion makes first public appearance

The parade marked the first public appearance of the newly raised Bhairav Battalion. Raised as part of the Army’s restructuring, the unit draws operational lessons from global conflicts and Operation Sindoor. Positioned between the Para Special Forces and regular infantry units, the battalion has been created to deliver quick and precise offensive responses to emerging threats.

Mechanical units, infantry and paratroopers on display

The Army Day parade featured a wide range of mechanical units, infantry formations, paratroopers and other modern capabilities, reflecting the force’s combined-arms strength and operational depth.

Madras Regiment showcases warrior dance

Soldiers from the Madras Regiment presented a warrior dance accompanied by the Chenda drum from Tamil Nadu and demonstrated Kalaripayattu, a traditional martial art from Kerala, reflecting regimental traditions, cultural heritage and physical combat skills rooted in Indian martial practices.

BrahMos missile showcased with mechanised column

The Army displayed the BrahMos missile, India’s indigenously developed long-range, ramjet-powered supersonic cruise missile, as part of the mechanised column.

Robot dogs and all-terrain vehicles lead missile display

Robot dogs and all-terrain vehicles were showcased alongside the BrahMos missile, highlighting the Army’s growing focus on automation and mobility.

Integrated Drone Detection and Interdiction System showcased

The Army displayed its Integrated Drone Detection and Interdiction System (IDDIS), led by a contingent from the 401 Light AAV Regiment under Captain Priya Yadav. The system identifies aerial threats and categorises them for ‘soft’ or ‘hard’ kill responses through jamming or destruction.

Combat drones displayed by Army units

Combat drones were showcased during the parade by a contingent led by Major Anhad Singh Chatadar of the 624 AAV Battalion, underlining the Army’s expanding drone warfare capabilities.

Drone Shakti initiative highlights indigenous drone programme

The Army’s ‘Drone Shakti’ initiative was also featured, with multiple drones displayed on vehicles. Led by Major Arun Kumar of the 10 Corps Zone Workshop, the initiative integrates artificial intelligence and robotics under the indigenous drone fabrication programme.

BM-21 Grad multi-barrel rocket launcher featured

The upgraded BM-21 Grad multi-barrel rocket launcher was among the artillery systems displayed during the parade.

SMERCH rocket system showcased

The SMERCH system, capable of firing 12 rockets of 300 mm calibre to ranges of up to 90 km, was also presented as part of the artillery display.

Advanced Towed Artillery Gun System on display

The Advanced Towed Artillery Gun System featured in the parade, reflecting the Army’s modernisation of its artillery firepower.

M777 ultra-light howitzer

The M777 ultra-light howitzer was also displayed, highlighting its role in providing mobility and firepower, particularly in difficult terrain.

Akashteer air defence system featured

The indigenous Akashteer air defence system with medium-range surface-to-air missiles was showcased. The system has demonstrated effectiveness in high-threat environments during Operation Sindoor.

Igla man-portable air defence system displayed

The Igla man-portable air defence system was also part of the air defence display, highlighting close-range aerial threat response capabilities.

All-girls NCC contingent showcases youth participation

An all-girls marching contingent of the National Cadet Corps (NCC), led by Senior Under Officer Kavitha Kumawar, featured in the parade, representing youth participation and leadership.

Garhwal Scouts march past in full combat gear

Personnel from the Garhwal Scouts marched past the saluting dais in full kit and gear, representing high-altitude and specialised infantry capabilities.

Sikkim Scouts participate in parade

The Sikkim Scouts contingent took part in the march past, showcasing their role as a specialised mountain infantry unit.

Arunachal Scouts feature in march past

Soldiers from the Arunachal Scouts also marched in the parade, highlighting the Army’s presence and operational preparedness in frontier regions.