Air Chief Marshal AP Singh on Wednesday said that the Indian Air Force (IAF) showed the enemy its place during Operation Sindoor by firmly demonstrating its strength and resolve. He asserted that the IAF stands not only as the guardian of the nation’s skies, but also as the protector of its dreams.
Addressing a gathering on the occasion of the 93rd Air Force Day at Air Force Station Hindon near here, the Chief of Air Staff (CAS) said that the IAF is one of the finest Air Forces in the world in terms of technology and capability. He added that the IAF has risen to every challenge and stood firm in every crisis the nation has faced.
“Our Air Warriors have written history in every era. In 1947, they protected Kashmir. In 1965, they struck from the skies. In 1971, they contributed to the creation of a new state. In 1999, they displayed unmatched courage in Kargil. In 2019, they destroyed terrorist camps in Balakot. And this year, they achieved victory over the enemy in Operation Sindoor in just four days. Our courage has kept the borders safe and shown the enemy their place. Our skill and determination have supported our citizens in every need and strengthened their confidence. We are not only the protectors of the skies, but also the protectors of the nation’s dreams,” he added.
The Air Chief Marshal said that the world today is witnessing a global shift towards the empowerment of air power as the preferred and first instrument of statecraft, extending beyond traditional diplomacy. He added that as India navigates through the turbulent regional and global landscapes, it will increasingly depend on the IAF to provide an effective response to emerging threats.
Stating that the IAF’s performance during Operation Sindoor proved to the world how air power can be effectively used in shaping military outcomes in just a few days, the Air Chief Marshal said, “India’s bold and precise attacks restored the rightful place of offensive air action in the national consciousness. Our robust air defence architecture and offensive employment of long-range surface-to-air missile systems limited the adversary’s freedom to operate and ensured the safety of our vital assets. The outstanding performance of indigenously developed and integrated weapons, which delivered precise and devastating blows deep inside enemy territory, vindicates our faith in homegrown capabilities. Operation Sindoor is a shining example of what can be achieved through meticulous planning, disciplined training, and determined execution.”
The parade showcased the air might of the IAF, with its fighters lined up as part of the static display. These included the Rafale, Sukhoi Su-30MKI, and MiG-29 fighter jets, the Netra AEW&C, the C-17 Globemaster III and C-130J Hercules, the Apache attack helicopter fitted with Longbow radar, the Advanced Light Helicopter, the Akash Surface-to-Air Missile System, and the S-band Rohini radar. The recently decommissioned MiG-21 Bison was also a part of the display.
Air Chief Marshal AP Singh reviewed the parade and received the ceremonial salute. Earlier in the day, Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan, along with Air Force Chief Air Chief Marshal AP Singh, Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi, and Navy Chief Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi, paid homage to the fallen soldiers at the National War Memorial on the occasion of the 93rd Air Force Day. The CDS and the three service chiefs also laid wreaths at the memorial in a solemn tribute to the nation’s heroes.
President Droupadi Murmu extended greetings to Air Force personnel, veterans, and their families. In a post on X, Droupadi Murmu said, “Warm greetings to all air warriors, veterans and their families on Air Force Day! The Indian Air Force has always demonstrated courage, commitment, and excellence. Our Air warriors protect our skies and serve the nation with tireless dedication during disasters and humanitarian missions.”
Prime Minister Narendra Modi also posted on X, lauding the IAF for its role in safeguarding the Indian skies during the most challenging situations. “Greetings to all the courageous Air Warriors and their families on Air Force Day. The Indian Air Force epitomises bravery, discipline and precision. They have played a vital role in safeguarding our skies, including during the most challenging situations,” the post read.