The Indian Navy has offered a sneak peek into its Republic Day Parade (RDP) 2026 lineup, showcasing a powerful blend of indigenous innovation, space-enabled maritime prowess, and women empowerment. The preview, held at Kartavya Path, underscored the Navy’s vision of being a “Combat Ready, Cohesive and Aatmanirbhar Force,” aligning with India’s broader ambition of a Viksit and Samridh Bharat.
Lt Karan Nagyal, Contingent Commander, briefed the media, emphasizing that the Navy’s participation reflects its commitment to technological advancement and self-reliance. “Every element — from the marching contingent to the tableau and band — underscores India’s transformation into a technology-driven maritime power,” he stated.
The marching contingent will feature 144 young sailors, averaging just 25 years of age, symbolizing a modern, inclusive, and pan-India force. Drawn from across States and Union Territories, the contingent has undergone over two months of specialized drill and ceremonial training. Lt Nagyal will lead the contingent, with Lt Pawan Kumar Gandi, Lt Priti Kumari, and Lt Varun Dreveriya serving as Platoon Commanders.
The Navy’s RDP 2026 tableau, themed “Anchored in Tradition, Sailing into Self-Reliance and Innovation,” visually traces India’s maritime journey from ancient shipbuilding to modern, space-enabled naval operations. Key highlights include INS Vikrant, India’s indigenously built aircraft carrier, Project 17A Nilgiri-class stealth frigates INS Himgiri and INS Udayagiri, and a Kalvari-class submarine. The tableau also features the GSAT-7R (Project Rohini) naval communication satellite, underscoring the Navy’s advancements in space-enabled maritime operations.
Designed by Cdr Zubair Siddiqui and Lt Lekshmi K Ravi of the Navy’s Warship Design Bureau, the tableau blends heritage, cutting-edge engineering, and strategic innovation. A standout feature is its focus on Mahila Sashaktikaran, showcasing women officers Lt Cdr Dilna and Lt Cdr Roopa, who completed the historic circumnavigation aboard INSV Tarini. Young girls from the Sea Cadets Corps will also march alongside the tableau, marking their return to the Republic Day Parade after their last participation in the 1980s.
The Indian Navy Band, comprising 80 musicians, will be led by MCPO Musician First Class M Antony Raj. During the Beating the Retreat Ceremony on 29 January 2026, the band will perform dynamic compositions with precision formations. Notably, the ensemble includes six women Agniveer musicians, reflecting the Navy’s evolving talent pipeline.
Vice Admiral Praveen Nair, Controller Personnel Services, emphasized that the Navy’s participation goes beyond ceremonial display. “The tableau reflects the Prime Minister’s vision of ‘Samudra Se Samridhi,’ showcasing how India is transitioning from ancient maritime traditions to a self-reliant, innovation-led naval force,” he said.
Shri Vijay Kumar, Spokesperson, Ministry of Defence, noted that the staggered press previews — beginning with the Navy — enable deeper understanding of each Service’s role while reinforcing joint planning and integration. The Indian Air Force and Army previews will follow in the coming days.
The Indian Navy’s RDP 2026 presentation highlights growing opportunities for defence-tech startups, shipbuilding innovators, satellite and communications firms, autonomous systems developers, and maritime AI platforms to engage with India’s expanding indigenous naval ecosystem. This showcase not only celebrates the Navy’s achievements but also sets the stage for future advancements in maritime technology and innovation.