'Big birds' soar in the skies! Indian Air Force celebrates its 89th anniversary
The air force put on a spellbinding display, comprising of heritage and modern jets along with skydivers and aerial acrobatics at the Hindon Air Base in Uttar Pradesh’s Ghaziabad
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The parade on the occasion of Air Force Day took place at Hindon Air Base in Uttar Pradesh's Ghaziabad. Each year on 8 October, the country marks Indian Air Force Day and it is celebrated with zeal and fervour across the bases in the country. Modern jets such as the Tejas took to the skies to mark the event. AFP
Indian Air Force (IAF) fighter jets release flares as they fly during the 89th Air Force Day. IAF chief Air Chief Marshal V R Chaudhari, Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Karambir Singh, Army Chief General Manoj Mukund Naravane and Chief of Defence Staff General Bipin Rawat were present at the event. AFP
Other modern jets such as the Sukhoi Su-30 and the Rafale also took to the skies to put up a display that mesmerised all present. The IAF's C-17 aicraft along with a Surya Kiran aircraft squadron also showed off its skills at the event. AFP
The flypast included heritage aircraft as well as modern transport jets and frontline fighter jets. AFP
The Indian Air Force (IAF) Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH) 'Sarang' team performs during the 89th Air Force Day parade. AFP
IAF paratroopers from the 'Akashganga' skydiving team showed off their skills, evoking much surprise from the crowds. AFP
Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended his greetings on Air Force Day, and said the Indian Air Force is synonymous with courage, diligence and professionalism. In a tweet Modi said, "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." AFP
The celebrations also saw bravery being honoured with IAF chief Air Chief Marshal V R Chaudhari presenting the Vayu Senal Medals to officers. ANI
The IAF was established on 8 October 1932 in undivided India, which was under colonial rule. It was given the prefix 'Royal' by King George VI for its contribution during World War II. The prefix was dropped in 1950 when India became a republic. AFP