CHANDIGARH: Since the Air Force was founded on this day in 1932, India proudly observes Indian Air Force Day on October 8 each year. The day is observed in remembrance of the Indian Air Force's formal creation as an auxiliary force of India. The Indian Air Force was formerly known as the Royal Indian Air Force, but the prefix was dropped in 1950 when the country became a republic.

The Guardians of the Skies, with 90 years of excellence, celebrated Air Force Day on Saturday in Chandigarh under overcast skies, marking the first time the annual day celebrations were held outside the national capital. 
In addition to aerial displays and the Air Warriors exercise exhibition, Rafale, Jaguar, Tejas, and Mirage 2000 will fly in the "Sekhon" formation. At the Air Force Station, a formal procession was organised, and Chief of Air Staff V.R. Chaudhari led the salute.

At the parade event, an ALH Mk IV helicopter will fly by in Rudra formation. The mechanical transport team will do a quick vehicle disassembly and assembly display at the event, which will be followed by an air warrior drill team performance.

An 'Aakash Ganga' team of paratroopers in an AN-32 aircraft will lead off the fly-past. A "bambi bucket" firefighting operation will be carried out by Mi 17 V5 helicopters, while helo casting operations will be carried out by Mi 17 IV helicopters. The fly-past will happen at Sukhna Lake later in the day.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi tweeted his greetings: "My greetings to the valiant airmen and their families on Air Force Day. Also, On Indian Air Force Day, Union Defense Minister Rajnath Singh sent greetings and well wishes to all valiant IAF air warriors and their families.

The Indian Air Force has long displayed great skill. They have protected the country while displaying admirable human character in times of calamity." The IAF will present new camouflage uniforms for servicemen at the event.

"For its bravery, excellence, performance, and professionalism, the IAF is renowned. India takes great pride in its blue-clad soldiers. I hope they have clear skies and safe landings" he said.

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Major operations of the Indian Air Force