New Delhi: The Indian Air Force (IAF) is observing its 89th foundation day at the Hindon Air Force Station in Ghaziabad which will witness the presence of the Chief of Air Staff and senior officials of the three armed forces. The occasion is being celebrated as 'Swarnim Vijay Varsh', where the IAF will commemorate the victory of the 1971 war.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated air warriors and praised their gallantry. “Greetings to our air warriors and their families on Air Force Day. The Indian Air Force is synonymous with courage, diligence, and professionalism. They have distinguished themselves in defending the country and through their humanitarian spirit in times of challenges,” tweeted Modi.
Defence minister Rajnath Singh also shared greeting on the occasion.
Meanwhile, IAF Chief Air Chief Marshal VR Chaudhari inspected the Air Force Day parade on the 89th foundation day at Hindan airbase. He also presented Vayu Sena Medal (Gallantry) to officers on the occasion. Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Bipin Rawat, navy chief Admiral Karambir Singh and Chief of Army Staff General MM Naravane also attended the 89th Air Force Day parade at Hindon airbase.
Three paratroopers were seen flying down from the sky carrying the Indian Tricolour together with the IAF flag. This was a depiction of the Tangail airdrop operation, mounted during the 1971 war. In the re-enactment of the famous operation, three paratroopers, including one from the Army, jumped from a vinatge Dakota transport aircraft.
History of Indian Air Force Day
Established on October 8, 1932, the Indian Air Force was formed to support the United Kingdom's, Royal Air Force. Initially known as the Royal Indian Air Force, the prefix Royal was dropped in 1950 when India transitioned into a Republic.
The IAF is the air wing of the Indian Armed Forces and the fourth largest air force in the world. It is headed by an Air Chief Marshal (ACM), while the President of India remains the Commander-in-Chief of the armed forces.
What will IAF 2021 showcase?
The 2021 IAF Day parade paid tribute to the heroes of the 1971 war, which defeated Pakistan and led to the creation of Bangladesh. There was also a Vinaash formation showcasing the victory in the Battle of Longewala. Six Hunter aircraft carried out this formation.
The IAF honoured its only Param Vir Chakra awardee, Nirmaljit Singh Sekhon, with a Sekhon formation. The event also saw one aircraft each--Rafale, Tejas, Jaguar, MiG-29, and Mirage 2000--flying over the marchpast together.
The event will showcase Mi-17 and Chinook helicopters depicting the Meghna formation.
Three units of the Indian Air Force (IAF) received the prestigious Chief of Air Staff Unit citation. The citation was for their participation in the air duel with Pakistan in February 2019 and operations in Ladakh in response to China's aggression in that sector, the air arm of the Indian Armed Forces said.