Indian Air Force day
Context:
The Indian Air Force (IAF) celebrated its 92nd anniversary with an airshow at Marina Beach, Chennai.
Highlights:
- The theme of the year is – “Bhartiya Vayu Sena: Saksham, Sashakt, Atmanirbhar” (Potent, Powerful, and Self-Reliant), reflecting IAF’s alignment with the nation’s goal of achieving self-reliance and building a capable and powerful defence force.
About Indian Air Force (IAF):
- The Indian Air Force (IAF) was established on 8th October 1932 as an auxiliary air force of the British Empire.
- The IAF’s motto, “Touch the sky with Glory” (Nabhah Sparsham Diptam), is derived from the eleventh chapter of the Bhagavad Gita.
- The IAF’s first operational flight occurred on 1st April 1933.
- It became the Royal Indian Air Force after World War II, in recognition of its service, and retained this name until India became a republic in 1950.
- Since 1950, the IAF has participated in several key operations, including:
- Four wars with Pakistan.
- Major missions like Operation Vijay, Operation Meghdoot, Operation Cactus, and Operation Poomalai.
- United Nations peacekeeping missions.
- Structure and Leadership:
- The President of India holds the position of Supreme Commander of the IAF.
- The IAF’s operational command is led by the Chief of the Air Staff, a four-star officer.
- The rank of Marshal of the Air Force was conferred once, on Arjan Singh, making him the only five-star officer in the history of the IAF.