Rafale jet to feature in Republic Day parade for first time

In the 'Vertical Charlie' formation, the aircraft flies at low altitude, pulls up vertically and conducts rolls before stabilising at higher altitude

Rafale fighter jet taxis on the tarmac during its induction ceremony at an air force station in Ambala, India. Credit: Reuters File Photo

Inducted into the Air Force last September, the Rafale fighter jets would be the highlight of the flypast this Republic Day performing the breathtaking ‘Vertical Charlie’ formation.

Described as a “game-changer” aircraft, the Rafale fighter jet would fly at low altitude over the Rajpath and pull up vertically in front of the viewing dias before stabilising at a higher altitude.

“The flypast will culminate with a single Rafale aircraft carrying out a ‘Vertical Charlie’ formation,” IAF spokesperson said.

A total of 38 IAF aircraft and four planes of the Indian Army will participate in the flypast on January 26, he said.

Known as the 4.5 generation aircraft, the Rafale is considered among the finest fighters in the world. Described as an ‘omnirole’ aircraft, it can take up several missions on a single flight.