Brahmos to be main attraction of Army's Republic Day contingent

BrahMos, a 290-km range cruise missile that can touch 2.8 times the speed of sound, will be the main attraction of the army contingent for the Republic Day 2009.

The leader of the Republic Day Parade, GOC Delhi Area, major general KJS Oberoi said that the Brahmos and full width length mine plough would be the main attraction of the parade this year.

He further said to keep the enthusiasm level high among spectators, the duration of the parade will one-and-half-hours. Last year, duration of the Republic Day parade was one hour and fifty-two minutes.

Kazakhstan president Nursultan Nazarbayev will be the chief Guest on the occasion. The parade will commence from Vijay Chowk till the Red Fort following the traditional route of Rajpath.

The Indian Army will be represented by the mounted column of 61 cavalry, seven mechanized columns, eight marching contingents, and a fly past by the Dhruv Advanced Light Helicopters of Army Aviation core.

Ten serving, retired and civilian Param Vir Chakra and Ashok Chakra awardees will also participate in the parade.

A total of 10 military bands and 13 Pipes and Drums of various regiments will provide music to the mach past.