New Delhi: India is gearing up to showcase its military might and cultural diversity at the Republic Day Parade 2025. The Indian Army has been practicing with its latest equipment, including mechanised fighting platforms and precision weapon systems, demonstrating the country’s progress in defence innovation and commitment to self-reliance (Atmanirbharta). This year’s parade promises to be a unique blend of India’s cultural diversity and military prowess.
Taking to X, the Indian Army wrote, “India’s Strength and Pride at the Republic Day Parade. Watch the Mean Machines of Indian Army practising for the Republic Day Parade 2025. From mechanised fighting platforms to precision weapon systems, each equipment is a testament to India’s progress in defence innovation and commitment to Atmanirbharta. The parade is not just a reflection of the nation’s growing military prowess but also of IndianArmy’s indomitable spirit and unwavering commitment to safeguarding our sovereignty.”
India’s defence showcase
India’s defense sector achieved a huge milestone during the 2025 Republic Day parade. For the first time, the Pralay ballistic missile system with its twin launchers was showcased. Developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), it is a surface-to-surface quasi-ballistic missile with a range of 150 to 500 kilometers.
The Pralay missile is now mounted on an Ashok Leyland 12×12 high-mobility vehicle, replacing the previously used Czech-made Tatra launchers. This is a completely ‘Made in India’ design. In the future, its transporter-erector launcher (TEL) will be manufactured by BEML.
In December 2022, the Indian Air Force ordered 120 Pralay missiles after an order of 250 units by the Indian Army in 2023. These missiles are specifically deployed to bolster India’s defense capabilities along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) and Line of Control (LOC). They will form part of the Integrated Rocket Force, which includes systems like BrahMos, Nirbhay, and Pinaka.
The key features of the Pralay missile are its twin missile canisters and advanced guidance system. Its solid-fuel rocket motor enables it to achieve a terminal speed of 6.1 Mach. The missile can precisely target radars, command centres and airstrips. Its guidance system accuracy is currently under 10 metres, with improvements underway to enhance it to within 4 meters.
Pralay’s capabilities have garnered international attention as well. Recently, Armenia expressed interest in acquiring the missile. Its export variant will be configured with a range of 300 kilometers and a payload of 500 kilogrammes to comply with international regulations. The display of the Pralay missile at the Republic Day parade symbolises India’s growing defence strength and self-reliance. It is set to elevate India’s strategic capabilities to new heights.
