The Indian Air Force (IAF) is marking its milestone 90th Air Force Day on the 8th of October. The day is significant for the IAF as it celebrates its long history and numerous accomplishments. The central event of the anniversary celebration is being held at Chandigarh Air Force Station, featuring a parade and flypast by various aircraft.
A Glimpse into the Air Force Day Celebrations
The primary highlight of the 90th Air Force Day is the air display at the Chandigarh Air Force Station. A range of aircraft, including the Light Combat Helicopter “Prachanda,” Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas, Sukhoi, Mig-29, Jaguar, Rafale, IL-76, C-130J, and Hawk, have participated in the flypast. Further adding to the spectacle, helicopters such as the Advanced Light Helicopter Dhruv, Chinook, Apache, and Mi-17 have taken part in the aerial display.
Retracing the Roots: History of the Indian Air Force
Established in 1932, during the height of World War II, the original purpose of the Indian Air Force was to support the Royal Air Force of the United Kingdom in its fight against Japan. To halt the advance of the Japanese army into India, the IAF targeted Japanese bases in Burma. The IAF’s efforts were recognized by King George VI in 1945, who awarded it the prefix “Royal.” However, after India became a republic in 1950, this honorary title was dropped, and the force became known as the Indian Air Force.
About the Indian Air Force
The President of India serves as the Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces, with the Indian Air Force being the fourth-largest air force in the world, boasting a headquarters in New Delhi. The IAF lives by the motto: “Touch the Sky with Glory,” which is derived from the eleventh chapter of the Bhagavad Gita. The operational command of the air force lies with the Chief of Air Staff, who holds the rank of an air chief marshal.
Significant Operations of the IAF
Since India’s independence, the IAF has played crucial roles in conflicts with Pakistan and the People’s Republic of China. Operation Meghdoot, launched on April 13, 1984, is a notable mission in which the Indian Army, IAF, and paramilitary forces collaborated to regain control of the Siachen glacier’s strategic heights.
Apart from military operations, the IAF has made significant contributions during natural disasters like the Gujarat cyclone in 1998 and the tsunami in 2004. Other significant operations include Operation Vijay (1961), the Second Kashmir War (1965), the Bangladesh Liberation War (1971), Operation Poomalai (1987), Operation Cactus (1988), the Kargil War (1999), the Balakot airstrike, and the India-Pakistan standoff of 2019.
From its inception during World War II to its current operations, the Indian Air Force has demonstrated resilience, courage, and an unwavering commitment to the defense of the nation.
