Chief of Defence Staff Graces the Event; Chief of Air Staff Reviews Ceremonial Parade
DOGRA HERALD BUREAU
NEW DELHI, Oct 8
An immaculate ceremonial parade, a breathtaking demonstration of air power, and a spectacular static display of state-of-the-art equipment marked the celebrations of the 92nd anniversary of the Indian Air Force (IAF) at the Air Force Station, Tambaram in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, on October 8, 2024. Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan graced the celebrations, while the ceremonial parade was reviewed by Chief of Air Staff Air Chief Marshal AP Singh. In his address, the Chief of Air Staff underscored the need for the IAF to remain prepared to meet any contingency that challenges national interests. He stated that the current global security environment is in a state of constant flux and ongoing conflicts have demonstrated an inescapable need for a strong and capable Air Force.
He added that adopting the latest technology, along with innovative and out-of-the-box thinking, will play a decisive role in today’s multi-domain environment.
Air Chief Marshal AP Singh emphasized that the theme of Air Force Day 2024, ‘Bhartiya Vayu Sena: Saksham, Sashakt, Aatmanirbhar,’ perfectly describes the aspirations of the IAF. “Over the years, we have become more empowered with better technology and achieved new levels of operational exploitation of systems and weapons. Aatmanirbharta in the field of defence R&D and manufacturing is our priority. Concrete steps have been taken to support Make in India initiatives by engaging MSMEs, start-ups, individual innovators, professionals, R&D institutes, and academia,” he added.
The Chief of Air Staff described Air Force Day as an occasion for the air warriors to rededicate themselves to the service of the nation, introspect on the previous year, celebrate achievements, recognize areas for improvement, and realign to the present and future requirements. Regarding last year’s achievements, he stated that the IAF has proved its mettle on various fronts.
“One of our primary objectives is to deliver weapons on target, on time, every time, and this capability was aptly showcased during the firepower demonstration exercise ‘Vayu Shakti’ at the Pokhran Range in February 2024,” he said.
Air Chief Marshal AP Singh added that the IAF expanded its participation in bilateral and multilateral exercises with friendly countries this year. He stated that the successful conduct of the largest multinational exercise on Indian soil, ‘Tarang Shakti,’ was a testimony to the competence and professionalism of India’s air warriors.
The Chief of Air Staff asserted that the IAF has always been the first responder to calls for humanitarian assistance and disaster relief both within the country and abroad, highlighting various operations conducted in the last year. He reaffirmed the IAF’s full commitment to providing a conducive working environment for air warriors, terming the welfare and well-being of personnel and their families as of utmost importance.
Parade
The parade commenced with the marching-in of the President’s Colours, symbolizing pride, unity, strength, and esprit de corps. The atmosphere became even more melodious through the performance of a Tri-Services Band, which filled the air with patriotic fervor. The Air Warrior Drill Team captivated the audience with their sharp and synchronized movements, leaving a lasting impression on all present.
Airshow
The parade was followed by an aerial display, with various jets, including the Tejas Light Combat Aircraft, Sukhoi-30 MKI, and Pilatus, performing daring low-level aerobatic maneuvers. The skies over Chennai were painted in the colors of the national flag as the Suryakiran Aerobatics Team and Sarang Helicopter Team mesmerized the crowd with thrilling performances.
Static Display
The static display featured state-of-the-art equipment such as the ALH Mk-4, C-295 Transport Aircraft, Akash Missile Defence System, HTT-40, and Rohini Radar.
The event was a fitting tribute to the IAF’s nearly a century of unwavering dedication and unparalleled service to the nation, embodying the theme of ‘Bhartiya Vayu Sena: Saksham, Sashakt, Aatmanirbhar.’
