Honouring Valor and Innovation: Indian Air Force Day

Why in the news?

  • Indian Air Force Day, celebrated on October 8, highlights the achievements and sacrifices of IAF personnel.
  • It underscores the importance of air power in national security while showcasing advancements like the BRAHMOS missile, reflecting the IAF’s commitment to modernization and self-reliance in defence.

Honouring Valor and Innovation: Indian Air Force Day

Key highlights of the Indian Air Force Day celebrations:

  • Legacy and Role:
    • Indian Air Force (IAF) Day is observed annually on October 8 to honour the bravery, achievements, and sacrifices of IAF personnel.
    • Established on October 8, 1932, the IAF plays a critical role in national security and regional stability, ensuring air superiority and conducting reconnaissance missions.
  • Modernization and Advancements:
    • The IAF has evolved into a modern aerospace power with capabilities like the BRAHMOS supersonic cruise missile, enhancing its strategic reach and lethality.
    • Current modernization initiatives aim for a squadron strength of 42 by 2035, focusing on stealthy UCAVs and advanced technologies for better combat readiness.
  • Community Engagement and Future Aspirations:
    • Celebrations include air shows and parades to demonstrate military capabilities and engage with the public, inspiring future generations to consider careers in aerospace and defence.
    • The theme for IAF Day 2024 is “Bhartya Vay Sena-Saksham, Sashakt, Atmanirbhar,” reflecting the IAF’s commitment to self-reliance and innovation in safeguarding national interests.

About Indian Air Force (IAF):

  • Establishment: Founded in 1932 to support the Royal Air Force during
  • Key Role: Targeted Japanese bases in Burma to halt their advance into India.
  • Title Change: Received “Royal” prefix in 1945; dropped in 1950 after India became a republic.
  • Supreme Commander: The President of India.
  • Size: Fourth-largest air force globally.
  • Headquarters: New Delhi.
  • Motto: “Touch the sky with Glory,” derived from the Bhagavad Gita.
  • Chief: Air Chief Marshal overseas operational command.

Significant Operations

  • Wars: Participated in conflicts with Pakistan and China.
  • Major Operations:
  • Operation Meghdoot (1984)
  • Operation Vijay (1961)
  • Second Kashmir War (1965)
  • Bangladesh Liberation War (1971)
  • Operation Poomalai (1987)
  • Operation Cactus (1988)
  • Kargil War (1999)
  • Balakot airstrike
  • India-Pakistan standoff (2019)
  • Relief Efforts: Involved in disaster relief during Gujarat cyclone (1998) and tsunami (2004).

Sources Referred:

PIB, The Hindu, Indian Express, Hindustan Times