Ghaziabad, Oct 8 (NVI) The Indian Air Force on Thursday celebrated its 94th anniversary at Air Force Station Hindan here, showcasing its operational capabilities, technological advancements and rich heritage.
The ceremonial Air Force Day Parade was reviewed by Chief of the Air Staff Air Chief Marshal AP Singh in the presence of the Chief of the Army Staff, Chief of the Naval Staff, former Air Chiefs and other senior military and civilian officials.
The proceedings began with the marching-in of the President’s Colours, symbolising the IAF’s exceptional service, professional excellence and commitment to the nation.
On his arrival, Air Chief Marshal Singh received an aerial salute from three Mi-17 V5 helicopters in ‘Dhwaj’ formation carrying the National Flag and the IAF flag.
The parade, commanded by Group Captain Manish Sharma, was followed by an investiture ceremony during which Air Warriors were presented medals for gallantry and distinguished service. Five IAF units were also presented Unit Citations for excellence.
The theme of this year’s Air Force Day was “Indian Air Force: Infallible, Impervious and Precise” (भारतीय वायु सेना: अचूक, अभेद्य व सटीक), reflecting the force’s commitment to safeguarding the nation’s skies with precision, resilience and operational preparedness.
Addressing the gathering, Air Chief Marshal Singh said air power is the primary means of protecting national interests and asserted that the IAF remains alert, committed and ready to meet any contingency.
“An air force can have the most advanced aircraft in the world, but its true strength is measured by its operational preparedness — how quickly and confidently it can act whenever the call comes,” he said.
Referring to Operation Sindoor, the Air Chief said the IAF’s swift transition to combat operations demonstrated its destructive power as well as the effectiveness of its air defence operations.
He said the theme “Infallible, Impervious, Precise” was not merely a tagline but a manifestation of the force’s strength and resolve.
The IAF chief also stressed the importance of technological advancement and self-reliance, saying “Atmanirbharta is our guiding principle”.
He said emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence and autonomous systems, would be integrated while keeping human authority at the core.
Emphasising the need for jointness, Singh said success in modern conflict demands deep synergy, with joint planning and integrated combat application involving the Army and Navy being a daily activity.
On the space domain, he described space as a natural extension of the air domain and highlighted the IAF’s growing collaboration with ISRO and the domestic space industry, including its role in the Gaganyaan mission.
A static display of IAF assets gave spectators and media personnel an opportunity to view the force’s operational and combat capabilities.
Fighter aircraft, helicopters, surface-to-air and surface-to-surface guided weapon systems, radars and one-way attack unmanned aerial systems were among the assets showcased at the venue, highlighting the IAF’s focus on indigenous capability development and the “Make in India” initiative.
Five Unit Citations were presented to 24 Squadron ‘The Hawks’, 110 Helicopter Unit ‘The Vanguards’, 200 Squadron ‘Skanda’, 2402 Squadron ‘Vajra’ and the Electronic Warfare Range.
The celebrations also featured a performance by Team Shakti, the IAF’s all-women Air Warrior Drill Team, which showcased synchronised movements and complex formations.
The IAF Drummers Team, comprising 33 young Air Warriors, presented a vibrant performance featuring snare drums, roto drums, bass drums and cymbals, along with dynamic formations and acrobatic movements.
An aerial display by the IAF Heritage Flight showcased the legacy of Indian military aviation. A vintage Tiger Moth aircraft also enthralled the audience during the display.
The Air Force Day aerial display will next be held at Namo Ghat in Varanasi on October 25, according to the IAF.—(NVI)
