New Delhi, Jan 15 (IANS) The Indian Army is ready to face any challenge, external or internal, as it is equipped with ultra-modern technology, the head of the 1.13 million-strong force said Sunday.

“The army is ready for any challenge, external or internal. We have equipped our forces with ultra-modern technology,” General V.K. Singh said before taking the salute at an impressive marchpast on the 64th Army Day.

He also exhorted all Indians to remember the sacrifices of the soldiers who had laid down their lives over the years in the defence of the country.

“On this day, let us all remember those who laid their lives fighting for the nation,” he said.

The parade, which showcased India’s military might, was witnessed by a large crowd and marked the day when an Indian officer, General (Later Field Marshal) K.M. Cariappa, assumed command for the first time.

Featuring in the parade were soldiers from 10 Indian Army regiments and armour in the form of T-72 main battle tanks, as also Bullwhip mine-ploughs and Pinaka and Smerch multiple launch rocket systems as martial music and patriotic sentiment filled the air.

There was also a flypast by the Army Aviation Corps helicopters and by para-motor commandos.

Daredevil motorcyclists thrilled the spectators with their incredible stunts and were cheered loudly by the audience.

The army also presented a mock battle in which infantry, armored units, artillery and army aviation choppers retook a “captured” area in all of 15 minutes.

Among those who attended the parade were the Indian Navy and Indian Air Force chiefs, military attaches of several countries, and the recipients of gallantry awards.

The army chief earlier presented 15 gallantry awards, of which six were posthumous.