Guardians of the Sky: A Tribute to the Indian Air Force

Know what it takes to be the aerial warriors, defending the nation from the skies

Indian Air Force is a formidable pillar of the Indian Armed Forces offering glowing career opportunities for young aspirants who wish to have the great honour of serving the nation

The Indian Air Force (IAF) stands as a formidable pillar of India’s armed forces, defending the nation’s airspace and strategic interests with great courage, dexterity and determination.

Established on October 8, 1932, as an auxiliary air force of the British Empire, the IAF is now one of the oldest aerial fighting forces in Asia, evolving as the third largest airforce in the world!

A modern and technologically advanced aerial fighting force, IAF commands a diverse fleet of aircraft, from fighter jets to transport planes and rescue helicopters.

The IAF not only plays a pivotal role in defending India’s borders, it also provides tactical support during conflicts; and takes active part in national and global humanitarian and disaster relief missions.

A symbol of courage, conviction and commitment, IAF brings excellence to the field, ensuring security and well-being of the nation. The soaring sorties of the IAF fighters fill every Indian heart with pride, awe and joy.

Indian Air Force not just possesses one of the largest fleets in the world, it is also among the strongest aerial fighting forces globally. It is always battle-ready with several fully equipped and advanced airbases. Its Hindon Air Force Station located in Ghaziabad, UP, is the largest in Asia.

This success has not come overnight. It has taken the Indian Air Force a lot of reversals, sacrifices, dedication, and hard work to excel in the battlefield. The resilience of its officers and its fighter pilots has made sure that the force has consistently attained its lofty goals and succeeded in its mission to become one of the strongest in the world.

Humble beginnings

IAF began with just four Westland Vapiti aircraft and a handful of pilots. It now has a strength of more than 1,600 flying units, not just defending the Indian skies but also taking part in international peacekeeping missions.

Since its inception 91 years ago, the IAF, also known as Bharatiya Vayu Sena, has led and won many battles and aerial combats for India, key among them being the Bangladesh Liberation War.

It also plays a crucial role in rescue missions during national emergencies and natural calamities.

For those who dare to live by the edge and are strong enough to develop wings of fire, Indian Air Force offers wide ranging career opportunities.

Being part of the airforce requires extreme levels of courage, physical fitness and strength of character as well as loyalty and devotion towards the nation. Putting the nation ahead of oneself is easier said than done and to be able to do it consistently takes incredible degree of devotion and self sacrifice.

Our defenders of the Indian sky take to the skies with their hearts in their palms, consistently putting their life in line for the nation.

However, with discipline and sacrifice comes a life of thrilling adventures and soaring rewards.

Indian Air Force is a true giant among the legends, playing a crucial role in the national security of India. The heroics of the aerial warriors deserve all the tributes and platitudes that come their way, especially during its annual inception day celebration.

Pride of the Nation

Every year, October 8 is marked as the Indian Air Force Day to celebrate its victories and to commemorate its sacrifices in keeping the nation safe! On this day, IAF squadrons demonstrate their aerobatic and combat skills, mesmerising the spectators with their dazzling manoeuvres.

The Air Force Day celebrations bring the sky warriors into public consciousness, reminding every Indian the sacrifices our guardians of the skies make for the nation.

The day holds immense historical significance, narrating stories of great valour and determination that saw our fighter jets single-handedly winning key battles for India.

The occasion also unites the country and brings the citizens together to pay tribute to the air force heroes regardless of their status, class or gender.

The celebration also offers inspiration to the youngsters, encouraging them to dream of soaring into the skies and joining our legendary aerial warriors.

Leadership

Currently, IAF is being ably led by Air Chief Marshal VR Chaudhari, who was commissioned into the fighter stream of the Indian Air Force on December 29, 1982.

A highly-decorated officer, he is an alumnus of the National Defence Academy, Flying Instructors’ School and Defence Services Staff College, Wellington. The Chief has a rich and varied experience of operational flying, having flown over 3,800 hours. During his career, he has held numerous Command and Staff appointments and has been an Air Force Examiner on fighter and trainer aircraft. He is a Cat ‘A’ Qualified Flying Instructor and an Instrument Rating Instructor and Examiner.

Legacy

The legacy of Indian Air Force goes back almost a century, decorated with several feats of bravery, excellence and aviation records. Here are some highlights:

1. Fleet: The IAF fleet comprises a diverse and modern range of aircraft, including latest fighter jets like Dassault Rafale, the Sukhoi Su-30MKI and MiG-29. It also runs transport planes, a fleet of light and heavy helicopters, and reconnaissance aircraft.
2. Heroics: IAF has played heroic roles for India in several wars, gaining aerial superiority against the enemy as well as devastating enemy fleets on several occasions. The strategic role it played during the Kargil War in 1999 in providing air support and reconnaissance is among its highlights.
3. Aerobatics: The IAF’s renowned aerobatic teams like the “Surya Kiran” and the “Sarang” have mastered the art of aerial sorcery, leaving the spectators spellbound by their breathtaking works of daredevilry.
4. Peacekeepers: IAF is a regular and prominent member of the UN peacekeeping missions, actively engaging in various humanitarian efforts across the globe. It is also a leader in conducting relief operations, playing a vital role in evacuations during natural disasters and medical emergencies.
5. Combat Ready: The IAF’s combat readiness is legendary, with its fighters and officers maintaining a high state of operational readiness. The IAF aircraft and personnel are always on their toes, prepared to respond to threats or emergencies at a moment’s notice.
6. Gender Balance: The IAF has made a conscious effort to include women under its wings, allowing them to serve in various roles, including as fighter pilots. This policy has helped promote gender balance and diversity in the armed forces.
7. Sky is the Limit: The IAF constantly seeks to reach new heights in excellence. Its motto “Touch the Sky with Glory,” reflects its mission to reach new heights in aerial defence.

Do you think you have the resolve and grit to be part of the nation’s aerial warriors?

To know more about what it takes to be an aviator or an Air Force officer, check out our Career Talk episode with the former Indian Airforce Officer, Group Captain B.S. Reddy.