CHENNAI: Global security environment is in a state of constant flux and ongoing conflicts have demonstrated an inescapable need to have a strong and capable Air Force, according to Chief of Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal A P Singh.
In his address at the 92nd anniversary celebrations at Air Force Station Tambaram, the air chief said adopting latest technology along with innovative and out-of-the-box thinking will play a decisive role in today’s multi-domain environment.
Describing Air Force Day as an occasion for air warriors to rededicate themselves to the service of the nation, he said IAF has proved its mettle on various fronts.
“One of our primary objective is to deliver weapons, on target, on time, every time and this capability was aptly showcased during the firepower demonstration exercise ‘Vayu Shakti’ at Pokhran Range in February 2024,” he said.
“We also conducted the largest multinational exercise Tarang Shakti on the Indian soil after a gap of 61 years with participation of air forces of more than 30 nations,” he added.
Highlighting the theme of ‘Bhartiya Vayu Sena: Saksham, Sashakt, Aatmanirbhar’, he said, “Concrete steps have been taken to support Make in India initiatives by engaging MSMEs, start-ups, individual innovators, professionals, research and development institutes and academia.”
Earlier, the parade commenced with the marching-in of the President’s Colours, symbolising pride, unity, strength and esprit-de-corps.
It was followed by an aerial display, with various jets including Tejas Light Combat Aircraft, Sukhoi-30 MKI and Pilatus performing daring low-level aerobatic manoeuvres.
Meanwhile, the soaring temperature impacted two Indian Air Force jawans who fell unconscious during the celebration of Air Force Day. They were carried on stretchers and treated.