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India Details Republic Day 2026 Parade With ‘Battle Array’ Format, EU Leaders as Chief Guests

The 150th anniversary of Vande Mataram anchors a more explanatory showcase that pairs indigenous military systems with wider public access.

Overview

  • The Defence Ministry confirmed a phased battle array with live commentary that sequences reconnaissance, logistics, strike and support, with the aerial component aligned to the operational narrative.
  • European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen and European Council president António Costa will attend as chief guests, with a first‑ever European Union naval contingent joining the parade.
  • Eighteen marching contingents, 13 military bands and 30 tableaux are slated, alongside a cultural performance of about 2,500 artists and animal units featuring Zanskar ponies, Bactrian camels and service dogs.
  • Showcased systems will include BrahMos and Akash missiles, MRSAM, ATAGS and Dhanush guns, T‑90 and Arjun tanks, BMP‑II vehicles, drones and a universal rocket launcher, with a flypast by Rafale, Su‑30, MiG‑29, P‑8I, C‑130, C‑295, Apache, LCH, ALH and Mi‑17.
  • Access changes feature river‑named enclosures replacing VVIP labels and a Rashtraparv portal with QR‑based ticketing and navigation to streamline public participation.