In pictures: With Sukhoi, Tejas, Chinook on display, IAF marks 87th Air Force Day
Air Chief Marshal AKS Bhauduria presided over his first Air Force Day as IAF chief, which had other service chiefs in attendance. Sachin Tendulkar, an honourary group captain, was also present.
New Delhi: The Indian Air Force celebrated its 87th anniversary Tuesday at the Hindon base in the presence of the IAF chief and senior officials of the three armed forces.
In his first Air Force Day address as Air Chief Marshal, R.K.S. Bhadauria said to ensure operational success in all future operations, the IAF must maintain a high serviceability of combat equipment and exceptional training standards.
Bhadauria further said, “The IAF achieved a whole lot in the last year and showed its capabilities to carry out special operations. We carried out the Balakot airstrike successfully this year.”
Prime Minister Narendra Modi also hailed the role of the IAF in protecting the country during conflicts and helping people during natural calamities. “The Indian Air Force continues to serve India with utmost dedication and excellence,” he said while Home Minister Amit Shah said the force is a symbol of valour and courage.
At Hindon, the day was marked by a display of the IAF’s tactical prowess.
IAF’s CH-47 Chinook fly in formation during the Indian Air Force Day celebrations at Hindon Airbase | Photo: Suraj Singh Bisht | ThePrint
Other central ministers and political leaders also praised the IAF and its service to the nation. The BJP called the IAF ‘guardian angels’, the Congress thanked it for its strength and valour, and Rajasthan CM Ashok Gehlot saluted the ‘air warriors’.