- Indian Air Force marked its 94th anniversary at Air Force Station Hindan, Ghaziabad
- Air Chief Marshal AP Singh reviewed the ceremonial parade on 8 October 2026
- Medals for gallantry and distinguished service were given during the investiture ceremony
- Five units received citations; Team Shakti performed as the all-women drill team
- Air Force Day aerial display moves to Namo Ghat, Varanasi, on 25 October 2026
The Indian Air Force marked its 94th Air Force Day at Air Force Station Hindan in Ghaziabad on 8 October 2026. The event showed the force’s operational reach, technological progress, professional standards and long history.
Parade and awards
Chief of the Air Staff Air Chief Marshal AP Singh reviewed the ceremonial parade. The Chief of the Army Staff, the Chief of the Naval Staff, former Chiefs of the Air Staff, senior military officers and civilians attended.
The parade opened with the President’s Colours, which stand for the force’s service, professionalism and commitment to the nation. Three Mi-17 1V helicopters flew in a ‘Dhwaj’ formation, carrying the National flag and the IAF flag, to salute the Chief on arrival. Gp Capt Manish Sharma commanded the parade.
An investiture ceremony followed. Air Warriors received medals for gallantry and distinguished service, and units were given citations for excellence.
Chief’s message
Air Chief Marshal AP Singh said air power is the main tool for protecting national interests. He said the IAF stays alert and ready to respond to any contingency, and that its readiness is improving.
He said a strong air force is judged by how fast and confidently it can act when called, not only by its aircraft. He pointed to Operation Sindoor, saying the IAF’s quick move into combat showed both destructive power and effective air defence.
On technology, he said self-reliance guides the force. Artificial Intelligence and autonomous systems will be adopted, with human authority kept at the centre. He added that joint planning with the Army and Navy is now routine, and that the force is working more closely with ISRO and India’s space industry, including its role in the Gaganyaan mission.
Displays and performances
A static display showed fighter aircraft, helicopters, surface-to-air and surface-to-surface guided weapon systems, radars and one-way attack unmanned aerial systems. The display underlined the force’s focus on ‘Make in India’ and indigenous capability.
Five unit citations went to 24 Squadron ‘The Hawks’, 110 Helicopter Unit ‘The Vanguards’, 200 Squadron ‘Skanda’, 2402 Squadron ‘Vajra’ and the Electronic Warfare Range.
Team Shakti, the IAF’s all-women Air Warrior Drill Team, performed synchronised movements and complex formations. The IAF Drummers Team, with 33 young Air Warriors, played snare, roto, bass drums and cymbals with dynamic formations and acrobatic moves.
The IAF Heritage Flight put on an aerial display, and a vintage ‘Tiger Moth’ aircraft paid tribute to the force’s heritage.
Next event
The Air Force Day aerial display will be held at Namo Ghat in Varanasi on 25 October 2026.
