VAYU-SHAKTI 2024 (Syllabus: GS Paper 3 – Security forces in India)

Context: The Indian Air Force recently conducted the demonstration exercise Vayu-Shakti 2024 at the Pokhran Range near Jaisalmer in Rajasthan.

Vayu-Shakti 2024

• About: It is a “triennial” exercise, conducted once every three years. It is aimed at showcasing the capability of the IAF to conduct full spectrum operations (day & night).
• Collaborative Manoeuvres: The exercise highlighted collaborative manoeuvres with the Indian Army, showcasing their joint operational capabilities.
• Precision and Long-Range Operations: The exercise showcased the Indian Air Force's prowess in precision and long-range weapon delivery, along with effective operations from various air bases.
• Participation and Aircraft: 121 aircraft, including Tejas, Prachand, Dhruv, Rafale, Mirage-2000, Sukhoi-30 MKI, Jaguar, Hawk, C-130J, Chinook, Apache, and Mi-17.
• Indigenous Weapon Systems: The exercise will showcase the capabilities of indigenous Surface to Air Weapon systems Akash and Samar in tracking and shooting down intruding aircraft.