With the motto to touch the skies with glory, with the primary mission to secure Indian airspace, Indian Air Force (IAF) continues to be our reason of pride. It is the air arm of the Indian Armed Forces.
The IAF has the core purpose of safeguarding Indian territory and national interests from all threats in connection with the other branches of the armed forces by protecting Indian aerospace.
The IAF was established on 8 October 1932 as an auxiliary air force of the British Empire which honoured India’s aviation service during World War II. As India celebrates the 87th Anniversary of Indian Air Force, here are few interesting facts to know about the arm force–
With around 1,70,000 personnel and 1,500 aircraft, it is the fourth largest air force in the world after US, China and Russia.
Its motto Nabha Sparsham Deeptham is taken from the eleventh chapter of the Bhagvad Gita.
Since 1950 the IAF has been involved in several wars, one against neighbouring Pakistan and one with the People’s Republic of China.
Other major operations undertaken by the IAF include Operation Vijay, Operation Meghdoot, Operation Cactus and Operation Poomalai
IAF’s mission expands beyond engagement with hostile forces. The wing participates in United Nations peacekeeping missions
During its ‘Raahat’ mission in the wake of Uttarakhand flash floods, the Indian Air Force made a world record in aviation by airlifting almost 20,000 civilians.
It has its own museum in New Delhi. It has a rich collection of memorabilia of Indian Military Aviation and displays the history of the Indian Air Force.
Each time, the IAF swung into action, it returned home with victory. Our air warriors have proved to be beyond the skies, ahead of tomorrow.