Indian Air Force marks 89th Foundation Day: A look at celebrations in pics

The Indian Air Force (IAF) observed its 89th foundation day on Friday. October 8 is annually celebrated as IAF Day, with celebrations at Hindon Air Force Station in Uttar Pradesh's Ghaziabad. 

Pic Courtesy: PTI

The IAF was established on October 8, 1932, as a supporting force of the United Kingdom's Royal Air Force. Initially known as the Royal Indian Air Force, the prefix ‘Royal’ was removed in 1950 after India became a Republic. Headed by an Air Chief Marshal (ACM), the Indian Air Force is the fourth largest air force in the world.

To mark 89 years on Friday, the air display started with flag-bearing skydivers of the famous AKASH GANGA Team dropping out of AN-32 aircraft in their colorful canopies. The flypast included heritage aircraft, modern transport aircraft, and frontline fighter aircraft. The ceremony came to an end with a spellbinding aerobatic display. 

Pic Courtesy: PTI

The 2021 IAF Day parade honoured the heroes of the 1971 war in which India defeated Pakistan leading to the creation of Bangladesh. To pay tribute to the 1971 war heroes, formations with call signs related to the places and people involved were displayed in the parade.

Pic Courtesy: PTI

Indian Air Force (IAF) chief Air Chief Marshal VR Chaudhari awarded the Vayu Sena Medal - Gallantry to officers on 89th Air Force Day at Hindan airbase. Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Karambir Singh, Army Chief General Manoj Mukund Naravane and Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Bipin Rawat were also present at the event. 

Pic Courtesy: ANI 

CDS General Bipin Rawat, Chief of the Army Staff General MM Naravane, Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Karambir Singh and Chief of Air Staff Air Chief Marshal V.R. Chaudhari paid homage to the fallen heroes on the occasion of 89th Air Force Day. 

Pic Courtesy: PTI