India Air Force Celebrates 88th Anniversary Featuring Newly Inducted Rafale Jets

The Indian Air Force is celebrating its 88th anniversary on the 8th of October. 

On the occasion, the Indian Air Force displayed fighter jets including the newly inducted Rafale fighter jets. An air display by various aircraft was the hallmark of the Air Force Day Parade also known as the Investiture Ceremony held at Force Station Hindon (Ghaziabad.)

The Air Force Day is being celebrated to mark the foundation of the IAF in 1932.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended greetings to the ”brave warriors” of the Indian Air Force. Many congratulations to all the brave warriors of the Indian Air Force on Air Force Day. You not only keep the skies of the country safe but also play a leading role in the service of humanity in times of disaster. Your courage, valour and dedication to protect Maa Bharti inspire everyone.”

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The Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said the country is “proud of its men and women in blue and salutes the prowess of the IAF as it stands ready to face challenges and deter adversaries.”

Rakesh Kumar Singh Bhadauria, the Air Chief Marshal said, “The recent induction of Rafale, Chinook and Apache aircraft significantly enhanced our combat capability over adversaries… We have clearly demonstrated our resolve, operational capability and will to effectively engage adversary should the need arise (sic.)”

Recently, on the 10th of September, the Central Government inducted five Rafale fighter jets formally into the IAF.

These Rafale jets are the first of the 36 contracted by India from France. In 2016, the Defense Ministry of India signed a contract of 36 Rafale jets from the aviation company, Dassault.

These jets would boost the power of Indian Air Force.

Last year Rajnath Singh, the Defense Minister of India, visited France and attended the induction and handover ceremony of the first Rafale jets slated for the Indian Air Force (IAF.)

Induction of the remaining Rafale jets would be completed by 2021.

Stay tuned for further updates.