The Indian Air Force (IAF) will mark eighty-nine years of its foundation on Friday, October 8, 2021, known as IAF Day. The celebration took place at Hindon Air Force Station in Ghaziabad of Uttar Pradesh, where the Chief of Air Staff and senior officials of the three armed forces were present.
The IAF was established on October 8, 1932, in the British Era as a supporting force for the Royal Air Force of the United Kingdom.
The prefix Royal was dropped in 1950 when India transitioned into a Republic country after its independence on August 15, 1947. The IAF is the fourth largest air force globally, headed by an Air Chief Marshal (ACM). The President of India is the Commander-in-Chief of the armed forces.
— Indian Air Force (@IAF_MCC) October 8, 2021
The 2021 IAF Day parade will pay tribute to the heroes of the 1971 war, in which India defeated Pakistan, which further led to the birth of Bangladesh. There will be a formation named Vinaash, carried out by six hunter aircraft showing the victory in the Battle of Longewala. General Bipin Rawat, General Karambir Singh, and General MM Naravane, the three Army Chiefs also attended the 89th Air Force Day parade.
IAF Victories
Three paratroopers flew down from the sky carrying the Indian Tricolour together along with the IAF flag. This depicted the Tangail airdrop operation, mounted during the 1971 war between India and Pakistan. In the re-enactment of the famous operation, three paratroopers, including one from the Army, jumped from a vintage Dakota transport aircraft.
Three units of the Indian Air Force (IAF) received the prestigious Chief of Air Staff Unit citation. The citation will be for the participation of IAF in the air duel with Pakistan in February 2019 and operations in Ladakh in response to China’s aggression.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi wished air warriors and their families on this occasion.
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. pic.twitter.com/UbMSOK3agP
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) October 8, 2021
Since April-May last year, the 47 Squadron will receive the citation for its participation in operations, the Balakot airstrikes, and those at high altitudes in the Ladakh sector opposite China. This 47 Squadron is situated at the Adampur Air Force Station in Jalandhar, Punjab.
Award Distribution Ceremony
The 116 Helicopter Unit equipped with ALH Rudra-armed choppers has been awarded the citation for operations at the Pakistan border in the wake of Balakot and for the deployment at forwarding airbase along the northern borders after the Galwan Valley clash. The Srinagar-based 2255 Squadron will be awarded for air defense activation in Ladakh after the incident in Galway valley.
Air Force chief Air Chief Marshal VR Chaudhari inspected the parade and presented Vayu Sena Medal (Gallantry) to its officers on occasion.
Fighter Aircrafts used in the formations
Rafale, Jaguar, Mirage 2000, Tejas, and MiG-29 have been included in the celebration. They will fly over for the march-past together. The fighter air jets Mi-17 and Chinook helicopters will also perform for the Meghna formation.
Greetings from Officials and Ministers
The Home Minister of India Amit Shah took to his Twitter account wishing the IAF.
On Indian Air Force Day, we salute our brave Air warriors for selflessly serving the nation and protecting its integrity.
— Amit Shah (@AmitShah) October 8, 2021
We are proud of the glorious history of our valorous Air Force.
May you continue to inspire the countrymen with your unparalleled devotion and commitment. pic.twitter.com/7r43n4Vjif
The Union Minister for Civil Aviation Jyotiraditya M. Scindia also wished the brave air warriors.
On the 89th #AirForceDay, I salute our brave Air warriors for their selfless service in protection of our skies. Their glorious history of sacrifice for Bharat Mata, and contribution during tough pandemic times will always serve as an inspiration for all. @IAF_MCC pic.twitter.com/7v4MW2CPWJ
— Jyotiraditya M. Scindia (@JM_Scindia) October 8, 2021