New Delhi: The Indian Air Force (IAF) celebrated its 93rd Foundation Day on Wednesday at the Hindon Air Force Station, honouring the courage, discipline, and professionalism of its personnel. This year’s celebrations placed a special spotlight on Operation Sindoor, a milestone operation that reaffirmed India’s air power and precision warfare capabilities.
Founded on October 8, 1932, as an auxiliary air force of British India, the IAF has since evolved into one of the world’s most advanced and formidable air forces. Its primary mission remains the defence of Indian airspace and the execution of aerial operations during times of conflict.
The ceremonial event at Hindon was attended by Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan, Chief of Air Staff Air Chief Marshal AP Singh, Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi, and Navy Chief Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi. Air Chief Marshal Singh reviewed the ceremonial parade, which honoured the air warriors’ service and their role in Operation Sindoor.
The parade was followed by a spectacular march past and a static display of fighter aircraft, showcasing the IAF’s operational readiness and technological advancement. Spectators witnessed the strength and precision of the force that continues to safeguard India’s skies.
In his Special Order of the Day, Air Chief Marshal Singh lauded the unwavering dedication of IAF personnel and reflected on the lessons from Operation Sindoor. “As we commemorate this day, we pay tribute to the valour, dedication, and indomitable spirit of the Indian Air Force in protecting our nation’s sovereignty,” he said. “The world is undergoing major geopolitical changes, and recent conflicts have reinforced the decisive role of air power in achieving strategic objectives. Through Operation Sindoor, we reaffirmed the primacy of air power in shaping military outcomes.”
Operation Sindoor, launched on May 7, 2025, was a precision-driven counterstrike by the Indian Armed Forces in response to the Pahalgam terror attack. The mission targeted nine confirmed terrorist camps in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir and deeper inside Pakistan.
The IAF executed coordinated strikes on key enemy positions, including the Nur Khan and Rahimyar Khan airbases, using advanced indigenous platforms and the Integrated Air Command and Control System (IACCS) for real-time, multi-domain coordination. The operation showcased India’s growing technological sophistication and strategic capability in modern warfare.
The 93rd Air Force Day celebrations not only paid tribute to the IAF’s glorious past but also underscored its readiness to meet future challenges with precision, innovation, and unwavering resolve.
