On October 8, 1932, the Indian Air Force (IAF) was officially established as an auxiliary air force of the British Empire. The IAF has grown from strength to strength over the years, particularly in independent India. After 1947, the IAF has been involved in four major wars, two of which included the wars with Pakistan and China. The major operations of IAF include Operation Poomalai, Operation Cactus, Operation Meghdoot and Operation Vijay.

Celebrating its 81st birth anniversary, the Indian Air Force has reiterated its commitment to serving the nation. On October 8, IAF units across the country celebrated by a host of programmes, including parades, cultural programmes, reminding the ‘men in blue’ of IAF’s glorious past and a challenging and bright future.

The main celebration was held at the IAF base at Hindon where the Chief of the Air Staff Air Chief Marshal N.A.K. Browne exhorted the IAF personnel to keep the flag of India flying high. The IAF, he said, was conscious of the threat to national assets from terrorists and necessary steps have been taken for their protection.

“It is a very valid concern. These kinds of things have happened in our neighbourhood and in last two years, there have been three such incidents there. We are very conscious of those things and all necessary steps have been taken to protect our assets. We are extremely vigilant,” the Air Chief stated. “While ensuring their physical security, there is also an increasing need to ensure security of our communication and information networks.”

Air Chief Marshal Browne looked back at the year gone by as “quite challenging, yet extremely rewarding.”

The parade saw a riot of colours in the skyline as paratroopers dotted the sky flaunting the Indian Air Force flag and the tricolour. Different fighter and carrier aircraft of the IAF were seen across the skyline, shooting flares and leaving a trail of smoke as enthusiastic crowd cheered. The show was stolen by vintage Tiger Moth, an aircraft inducted into the then Royal Indian Air Force before Independence. The small bright yellow aircraft that bears the number HU-512 had served in the IAF from 1940 to 1963, and made a flight after 50 years. Vayu Seva Medals for gallantry were given to four personnel, Vayu Sena Medals for service to 14, while 28 got Vishisht Seva Medal for distinguished service.

Chief of the Air Staff Air Chief Marshal N.A.K. Browne arrives for the parade

Three C-130J's in VIC formation

The latest induction of the IAF C-17 Globemaster III escorted by two Su-30MKIs

Sarang display team in action

Vintage Tiger Moth in flight

Skydiver of the Akash Ganga team descending with ease and precision