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In pics: Indian Air Force’s glory day
The flypast comprised aircrafts like the MIG-21, MIG-29, Sukhoi-30 MKI, Globemaster, Hercules and Mirage 2000 which performed various daring maneuvers like dolphin, cross over, lower, closer and double crisscross mid-air, enthralling the audience.
The Indian Air Force (IAF) was officially established on October 8, 1932. Leaving in its wake a history of glory, the air warriors celebrated their 82nd anniversary on Wednesday at the Hindon air base in New Delhi.
The flypast comprised aircrafts like the MIG-21, MIG-29, Sukhoi-30 MKI, Globemaster, Hercules and Mirage 2000 which performed various daring maneuvers like dolphin, cross over, lower, closer and double crisscross mid-air, enthralling the audience.
"The IAF plays a major role in not only combating external and internal threats but also contributes immensely in aid to civil authorities. We remain deeply committed to our important nation building responsibilities," said IAF chief Arup Raha.
The ceremony also played host to retired cricketer Sachin Tendulkar, the first sportsperson to be conferred the honourary rank of Group Captain, along with his wife Anjali Tendulkar.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi also paid tribute to the force. "On Air Force Day, I salute our air force personnel. They are our pride and their bravery, commitment and dedication continues to inspire," he said in an official statement on the 82nd Air Force Day.
This is what today's ceremony looked like:
People watch as Indian Air Force's C-17 Globemaster III with Sukhoi Su-30MKI fly during the Air Force Day at air force station, Hindon near New Delhi on Wednesday. (AP Photo)
Sarang helicopters perform during the 82nd Air Force Day ceremony at Hindon on Wednesday. (AP Photo)
An eagle flies close to the Indian Air Force (IAF) Sarang helicopters as they perform during the Air Force Day at Hindon near New Delhi on Wednesday. (AP Photo)
IAF's C-17 Globemaster III with Sukhoi Su-30MKI fly in formation, displaying aerial demonstration at Hindon on Wednesday. (AP Photo)
IAF personnel march during the Air Force Day parade at the air force station in Hindon on Wednesday. (AP Photo)
IAF helicopters give the guard of honour to IAF chief Arup Raha at Hindon on Wednesday. (HT Photo)
Former Indian cricketer and honorary Indian Air Force Group Captain Sachin Tendulkar, with wife Anjali Tendulkar salutes as IAF personnel march during the Air Force Day parade at Hindon on Wednesday. (AP Photo)
IAF chief Arup Raha honours Sergeant Sudhakar Yadav's wife. He was killed in Uttarakhand chopper crash during 2013 rescue operations. (HT Photo)
The IAF Air Warrior drill team displays rifle handling skills the air force station in Hindon on Wednesday. (AP Photo)
Visitors take pictures in front of the IAF C-130J aircraft at Hindon on Wednesday. (AP Photo)
True to what they claim, IAF continues to touch the sky with glory.
(With inputs from Saurabh Trivedi)
