New Delhi – On the occasion of the 93rd Indian Air Force Day on October 8, 2025, Prime Minister Narendra Modi lauded the Indian Air Force (IAF) for its unmatched legacy, operational excellence and significant contribution to national security and humanitarian missions. The ceremony held at Hindon Air Force Station near Ghaziabad featured a grand parade, aerial displays and high-level tributes, with the PM’s message highlighting the evolving and indispensable role of the Indian Air Force.
A proud tradition and heritage
The IAF was formally established on October 8, 1932, when it was established as an auxiliary air force under British India. Over the decades, it has become one of the world’s leading air forces in capability, reach and strategic depth.
In his public statements, PM Modi emphasized that the Indian Air Force is “an epitome of bravery, discipline and precision”, praising its role not only in war but also in disaster relief and other domestic missions. He said the force “continues to make every Indian proud” through its commitment, professionalism and indomitable spirit.
As part of the day’s celebrations, Chief of Defense Staff (CDS) General Anil Chauhan, Chief of Air Staff (CAS) Air Chief Marshal A.P. Singh and dignitaries, including the Chiefs of Army and Navy, laid floral tributes at the National War Memorial in New Delhi in honor of the martyred air warriors. The tri-service unity at the memorial was a visible reminder of India’s unified armed forces.
Ceremonies, Parade, and Aerial Showcase
At Hindon, the central event featured a ceremonial parade, an aerial flypast, and static displays of advanced aircraft and aerospace technology. The Heritage Flight display — combining vintage aircraft like the Tiger Moth and HT-2 with modern jets — drew particular attention, weaving together the IAF’s historical journey and future vision.
Among the highlights, helicopters in “Dhwaj” formation trooped the national flag, the IAF flag, and the flag commemorating Operation Sindoor, underscoring the nation’s resolve to defend itself. The parade was commanded by Group Captain Chetan Pradeep Deshpande, while the IAF Drill Team’s precision movements earned applause from the audience.
The CAS presented 97 medals to distinguished airmen and awarded six Unit Citations to units for exemplary service. The Innovation Arena showcased cutting-edge ideas from within the IAF, while other exhibitions displayed assets including Rafale, Su-30 MKI, MiG-29, MiG-21 Bison, C-17 Globemaster, Apache, ALH MK-III, and radar and missile systems like the Akash system.
Spotlight on Operation Sindoor
A major theme of this year’s commemoration was Operation Sindoor, the high-precision air strike mission conducted in May 2025 in response to the Pahalgam attack. In his address, Air Chief Marshal Singh emphasized that the operation reaffirmed the primacy of air power in shaping strategic outcomes, sending a clear message of deterrence.
Representatives of the operation were honored during the parade, and aerial displays included references to the mission, linking the commemoration with a recent operational accomplishment. Analysts view Operation Sindoor as a sign of the Indian Air Force’s emerging role – not just as a defensive force, but as a proactive deterrent capable of a swift response.
PM Modi’s message and national appreciation
In a message on social media (X), PM Modi lauded the courage, discipline and precision of the Indian Air Force and extended his warm wishes to the air warriors and their families. He credited the force for securing the skies even in the “most challenging circumstances” and lauded its role during natural disasters, where the IAF often provides vital relief.
President of India Draupadi Murmu also issued greetings praising the Indian Air Force’s unwavering commitment to strength, professionalism and readiness to respond to any threat or crisis. The Vice President and other dignitaries echoed similar sentiments, commenting that the force’s action underlines India’s strategic autonomy.
Modernization, Strategic Reach & Challenges
Over the years, the IAF has steadily modernized, indigenised capabilities, and expanded its operational footprint. The Force now operates across domains—air, space, cyber—and integrates new doctrines to enhance multi-domain operations. Emphasis has also been placed on fighter upgrades, drone capabilities, performance of systems like AEW&C (Airborne Early Warning & Control), and integration with Indian defence technology.
Yet challenges remain. The IAF must maintain squadron strength, upgrade aging fleets, bridge gaps in logistics, and manage threats that span air, space, and cyber realms. Analysts note that sustained investment, policy continuity, and closer coordination with DRDO, industry, and the other services will be vital.
In recent months, ambitions such as Mission Sudarshan Chakra—a next-generation layered air & missile defence architecture—reflect the country’s intent to bolster indigenous capabilities. Though not explicitly tied to the Air Force Day celebration, such initiatives point toward the evolving role of air power in the national security paradigm.
Tribute, reflection and the way forward
Air Force Day is as much an occasion for celebration as it is a solemn tribute to those who paid the ultimate price to protect the country’s skies. Wreaths at war memorials, the presence of veterans, and references to past heroes and operations reflect on sacrifice and duty.
In his remarks, PM Modi and other leaders emphasized that the Indian Air Force’s legacy is not static – it must be built, adapted and prepared to meet future challenges. By honoring both historical milestones and modern missions like Operation Sindoor, the message is clear: the force is not a mere relic of the past, but a vital pillar of India’s strategic future.
As India faces changing geopolitical realities, the role of the IAF is likely to expand further – acting as a deterrent, force multiplier and catalyst in conflicts that are asymmetric in nature. The day’s celebrations and tributes reaffirm the national commitment to invest in, honor and strengthen India’s sky-gazing power.
Ultimately, Air Force Day 2025 was not only a commemoration of 93 years, but also a forward-looking statement – an affirmation of purpose, resolve and the journey ahead. The Indian Air Force remains a source of national pride, a guardian in peace and conflict and a major instrument in safeguarding India’s sovereignty and security.
