NEW DELHI: The
Indian Air Force (IAF) is celebrating its 86th anniversary as October 8 commemorates the official foundation day of the force. The
IAF, air arm of the Indian armed forces, has the prime responsibility of securing the Indian airspace as well as to carry out the aerial warfare during any clash. Here is all you need to know:
* To mark the 86th Indian
Air Force Day, a grand parade-cum-investiture ceremony is being held at Air Force station Hindan, Ghaziabad.
Air Chief Marshal BS Dhanoa, Chief of the Air Staff, will review the
parade.
* The parade will be followed by an air display and acrobatics by the Air Force's various aircraft, including Jaguar, Bison,
MiG-29, Mirage-2000 and SU-30 MKI fighter jets and Rudra helicopters.
* The force's mission expands beyond engagement with hostile forces, with the IAF participating in United Nations peacekeeping missions as well.
* The President of India holds the rank of Supreme Commander of the IAF.
* Earlier on Sunday, as part of 86th anniversary, the IAF organised an 8 km cross-country run with approximately 500 air warriors and a cycle rally with 100 children in Jammu.
* Last week, the IAF also displayed the upgraded MiG-29 and showcased its combat capabilities at Admapur Air Force Station. The upgraded MiG-29 aircraft can take off within five minutes of spotting a hostile jet trying to enter the Indian airspace and destroy it.
*
President Ram Nath Kovind and others took to
Twitter to wish the IAF personnel and their families.
President Ram Nath Kovind:
On Air Force Day, we proudly honour our air warriors, veterans, and families of the Indian Air Force. They safeguard our skies with courage and commitment. The resilience, tenacity and zeal of our valiant air warriors is a source of pride for every Indian
BJP president Amit Shah:
On Air Force Day, I extend my greetings to our air force personnel and their families. Their bravery and commitment to serve the motherland is unparalleled. It is because of their dedication and courage that we are among the top air force in the world.
Defence minister Nirmala Sitharaman:
Greetings on Air Force Day. Wishing IAF_MCC, Chief of Air Staff Air Marshal BS Dhanoa, PVSM, AVSM, YSM, VM, ADC and all officers and air warriors on this day. You are inheritors of a great history and you do us proud.
Union minister Suresh Prabhu:
On the occasion of the 86th Indian Air Force Day, I salute our courageous and selfless Indian Air Force fraternity. Their dedication and prowess ensure that our skies are safe.