The resonating supersonic boom of the Rafale Jet continues to reverberate in my ears long after the event has concluded. The Indian Air Force's display of firepower at the Pokhran range near Jaisalmer, themed 'Lightning Strike from the Sky,' illuminated the sky and reverberated with thunderous explosions on February 17, 2024. The audience was spellbound as the Indian Air Force showcased its formidable offensive capabilities in a captivating spectacle. The event was graced by the presence of Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan, who served as the Chief Guest. Also in attendance were Air Chief Marshal V.R. Chaudhari, the head of the Indian Air Force, and Navy Chief Admiral R. Hari Kumar.

This triennial event stands as a testament to the IAF's readiness and operational excellence, highlighting its capacity to execute precise strikes and uphold air superiority across both daytime and nocturnal missions. Occurring after a five-year hiatus, the last edition took place on February 16, 2019, merely ten days before the Indian Air Force (IAF) executed a strike on a JeM terrorist camp in Balakot, Pakistan, that marked the first instance since the 1971 war that Indian aircraft conducted an airstrike on Pakistani territory.

This triennial event stands as a testament to the IAF's readiness and operational excellence, highlighting its capacity to execute precise strikes and uphold air superiority across both daytime and nocturnal missions.

During Exercise Vayu Shakti, cutting-edge assets made their debut, including Rafale fighter jets, Prachand attack helicopters, and the recently developed and newly inducted Samar surface-to-air weapon system. The Rafale, is a French twin-engine fighter aircraft renowned for its "Omnirole", 4.5th generation fighter aircraft. India currently boasts 36 operational Rafale jets as of July 2023, with intentions to integrate 26 Rafale marine variants into its fleet within 2024. The Indian Air Force effectively deploys two Rafale squadrons. The Prachand, crafted by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), is a versatile light attack helicopter. It is the sole attack chopper worldwide capable of operating at altitudes up to 5,000 meters (16,400 ft). With a range spanning 700 km and a payload capacity of 1,000 kg, it stands as a formidable aerial asset. SAMAR features a twin-turret rail launch platform capable of firing two missiles simultaneously or in a salvo mode. Operating within the Mach 2 to 2.5 range.

The proceedings commenced as three Chetak helicopters paraded the National Flag and the Air Force ensign, soaring past the grandstand. Following this, a precisely executed 'Sonic Boom' resonated through the air, orchestrated by a Rafale aircraft. Trailing the Rafale, two Jaguar aircraft skimmed at low altitudes, capturing high-fidelity reconnaissance images of the surroundings.

The audience was captivated as a spectacle unfolded with over 120 aircraft showcasing the Indian Air Force's offensive prowess, both in daylight and under cover of night. Fighter jets such as the Rafale, Su-30 MKI, MiG-29, Mirage 2000, Tejas, and Hawk executed precise strikes, decimating simulated enemy targets on the ground and in the air with lethal accuracy. Employing an array of Precision Guided Munitions alongside conventional bombs and rockets, these assaults were executed from various angles and modes.

In a remarkable display of capability, an IAF Rafale successfully neutralised an aerial target using the MICA, a beyond visual range air-to-air missile, while the Apache attack helicopter unleashed hell from the Hellfire anti-tank missile. Demonstrating its versatility, the indigenously built Tejas aircraft engaged an aerial target with the R-73 Beyond Visual Range (BVR) missile before turning its attention to a ground target, delivering a precise bombing.

During Exercise Vayu Shakti, cutting-edge assets made their debut, including Rafale fighter jets, Prachand attack helicopters, and the recently developed and newly inducted SAMAR surface-to-air weapon system.

Advancing with the times and drawing insights from recent conflicts, the IAF showcased a long range unmanned drone, which surgically obliterated a simulated enemy radar site, epitomising pinpoint accuracy in modern combat operations.

During the event, combat support operations by transport aircraft showcased the versatility and agility of the Indian Air Force. A Containerised Delivery System drop was executed by a C-17 heavy-lift aircraft, while a C-130J conducted an assault landing, delivering IAF Special Forces, Garuds, to the battlefield.

In a significant milestone, the Apache attack helicopter unveiled its firepower by engaging targets with Air-to-Ground guided missiles. Simultaneously, Mi-17 helicopters unleashed rockets upon ground targets. Joint operations witnessed the Indian Air Force and Indian Army's weaponised version of the Advanced Light Helicopters Mk-IV effectively devastating simulated enemy targets using their rockets and swivel guns.

Furthermore, marking another milestone, IAF Chinook helicopters demonstrated rapid deployment capabilities by airlifting the Indian Army's M777 Ultra-Light Howitzers in an underslung mode, facilitating swift destruction of simulated enemy targets on the ground.

The proceedings had over 120 aircraft showcasing the Indian Air Force's offensive prowess, both in daylight and under cover of night.

As twilight descended and the sky transformed its palette, 'Garud' air warriorsdescended from Mi-17 helicopters to conduct an 'Urban Intervention,' showcasing their expertise in anti-terror/insurgency operations aimed at eradicating hideouts of hostile elements. Additionally, indigenous Air Defence Systems, including Akash and SAMAR missile systems, demonstrated their effectiveness by neutralising multiple aerial targets.

During the night-time segment, the indigenous Light Combat Helicopter 'Prachand' demonstrated its capabilities by successfully neutralising designated targets with rockets. Following this, a Jaguar and Su-30 MKI showcased the Indian Air Force's strategic bombing prowess by deploying heavy-calibre and area weapons under the cover of darkness. Bomb damage assessments of all targets were conducted by Remotely Piloted Aircraft, with live streaming to the Operations Centre and the audience.

The event featured a spectacular free fall drop by the Akashganga team, their silhouettes resembling soaring kites against the backdrop of the sky. Additionally, by night, a C-130J dispensed flares, illuminating the night sky with a dazzling display. In a gesture of unity, a Tri-service band captivated the audience with their melodious tunes.

Throughout the display, an astonishing 50 tonnes of ordnance were dropped within a brief two-hour window, covering a two-square-kilometre area. This remarkable showcase truly highlighted the Indian Air Force's offensive potency and unparalleled precision targeting capability.