India's 77th Republic Day: Military Might, Indigenous Weapons, and EU Presence on Kartavya Path

• India celebrated its 77th Republic Day on Kartavya Path with a grand display of military might, featuring missiles, new units, and indigenous weapon systems like those used in Operation Sindoor.
• European Council President Antonio Costa and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen attended as chief guests, marking the EU's first participation in such an event outside Europe.
• The parade's theme was '150 years of Vande Mataram', with President Droupadi Murmu taking the salute after arriving in a traditional buggy.
• The Indian Army showcased a phased 'Battle Array Format' for the first time, including indigenous armored light specialist vehicles, Dhruv and Rudra helicopters, T-90 Bhisma, Arjun tanks, and Nag missile systems.
• Major weapon systems like Suryastra URLS, Brahmos supersonic cruise missiles, and Akash missile systems were prominently displayed.

Why It Matters: India's 77th Republic Day showcased its growing military strength, indigenous defense capabilities, and international diplomatic ties.