First time in air power / The biggest exercise will be held in Pokhran; 36 Rafale, more than 100 fighter planes will destroy 'enemy hideouts'

The Indian Air Force, which is facing the challenge of the Chinese army on the northern front of the country and Pakistan on the western front, is going to conduct the biggest exercise ever in Pokhran, Rajasthan. It is touted as the most comprehensive and unprecedented wargame in terms of models of fighter participation, training combat flights, and air force performance. Women pilots will show bravery in Vayu Shakti for the first time with the flight of MiG-21 Bison fighter aircraft.

The Air Force has so far inducted 10 women pilots into the combat role. Out of these, at least three pilots can be involved in the big exercise this time. With this, the supply of all 36 Rafale aircraft is being completed in the first week of February. According to sources, all of them will have an active part in the full exercise of Vayu Shakti from February 10 to 12. Air Force units across the country are actively participating in the Vayu Shakti exercise, which is held once in three years.

The Air Force is on additional alert due to the conflict with China on the northern front for the last 20 months. Around 140 aircraft will have a share in Vayu Shakti. Will take about 100 fighter planes. Various types of missiles and fighters will be used in the exercise to destroy the enemy positions built in the Pokhran range.

Rafale's state-of-the-art Mika missile will be its special attraction. Sukhoi-30 MKI, MiG-29, LCA Tejas, Mirage 2000, MiG-21 Bison, Hawk and Jaguar aircraft will also participate in this. India's Dhruv will also take part in night operations along with Apache helicopter and Shinouk. In the night operation, there will be a barrage of rockets from the combat helicopters on the targets.

Air Force will do this operation

DCA - Defensive Counter Air

OCA - Offensive Counter Air

CAS-Counter Air Strike

CEAD-Suppress Enemy Air Defense

TOO-Target of Opportunity