Ghaziabad: Marking its 94th anniversary, the Indian Air Force (IAF) celebrated its foundation day with a grand event at the Hindon Airbase in Uttar Pradesh. Speaking on the occasion, Air Chief Marshal AP Singh asserted the force’s unwavering readiness to tackle emerging global security challenges and protect national interests at all costs.
Established on October 8, 1932, the Indian Air Force has evolved into a formidable, network-centric combat force. Addressing the personnel during the special programme, the IAF Chief highlighted the rapidly changing dynamics of global security. “Today, the world is going through rapid changes, leading to uncertainty and intricate geopolitical challenges. New conflicts are emerging across different parts of the world,” he stated.
The Air Chief Marshal noted that recent global events have firmly established air power as the primary instrument for safeguarding sovereign interests. As the custodian of India’s airspace, he assured that the IAF fully comprehends its vast responsibilities. “The Indian Air Force is always alert, committed, and ready to meet any contingency,” he emphasised.
Stressing that modern equipment alone does not dictate superiority, the Air Chief remarked on the true parameters of combat readiness. “We believe that any Air Force can have the most advanced aircraft or the most advanced systems in the world, but its true strength is measured by its operational preparedness. That is, how quickly and confidently it can act whenever the call comes,” he elaborated.
During his address, the Air Chief also recalled ‘Operation Sindoor’, highlighting it as a prime example of the IAF’s capability to execute swift and decisive military operations against adversarial forces like Pakistan.
The celebrations drew widespread wishes from across the nation, with political leaders, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, extending their greetings and acknowledging the vital role the Indian Air Force plays in maintaining national security.