Two Rafale fighter jets flanked by a 'Phoenix' multi-role tanker transport aircraft of the French air force roared off Delhi's sky as India celebrated its 75th Republic Day at a grand parade on Friday with French President Emmanuel Macron gracing it as the chief guest.
As soon as around 95 French troops marched down the Kartavya Path in the heart of the national capital, the whizzing warplanes pierced the morning sky making thousands of spectators crane their necks in wonder and amazement.
A 30-member band contingent from France also drew attention at the grand parade.
It was the second time the French armed forces participated in India's Republic Day celebrations.
In 2016, French troops became the first foreign military contingent to participate in the biggest ceremonial event in the country.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi was the guest of honour at the prestigious Bastille Day Parade in Paris in July last year.
The Indian Air Force's Rafale fighter jets and a tri-services marching contingent took part in the Bastille Day parade.
As the French marching contingent marched down the Kartavya Path, the two Rafale jets and the Airbus A330 multi-role tanker transport (MRTT) aircraft flew in a triangle formation.
The Rafale jets came from the 104 "Al Dhafra" air base, located in the United Arab Emirates. Their unit traces its origin back to World Wars I and II.
The Phoenix MRTT is capable of refuelling two fighters simultaneously or a single surveillance aircraft. It carries up to 110 tonnes of fuel.