- Nation honours Operation Sindoor; PM Modi, VP Radhakrishnan and CDS Chauhan laud the indomitable spirit, discipline, and modern might of the Indian Air Force at Hindon Airbase
NE DEFENCE BUREAU
HINDON (NEW DELHI), OCT 8
The Indian Air Force (IAF), the sentinel of India’s skies, celebrated its 93rd Air Force Day at Hindon Air Force Station on Wednesday with a spectacular display of air power, formation flying, and combat readiness — symbolising the force’s motto “Nabha Sparsham Deeptam” (Touch the Sky with Glory).
This year’s celebrations carried special significance with a tribute to Operation Sindoor (May 2025) — a high-precision, intelligence-driven strike that reaffirmed India’s aerial supremacy and strategic reach.
PM, VP and CDS Laud the Air Warriors
Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended warm greetings to the “courageous Air Warriors and their families”, calling the IAF the embodiment of “bravery, discipline and precision.”
“The Indian Air Force epitomises bravery, discipline and precision. They have played a vital role in safeguarding our skies, including during the most challenging situations. Their professionalism and indomitable spirit continue to make every Indian proud,” the Prime Minister said in his message on X.
Vice-President C. P. Radhakrishnan too hailed the IAF’s stellar service to the nation, describing it as a symbol of dedication and discipline that protects, serves, and inspires.
“From protecting our skies to providing aid during natural disasters, the IAF embodies service to the nation. Operation Sindoor, along with numerous other missions, stands as a testament to the invaluable contributions of the Indian Armed Forces, especially the Indian Air Force,” he stated, extending heartfelt gratitude to all Air Warriors for their courage and professionalism.
Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan commended the IAF’s precision, preparedness, and adaptability in modern warfare, praising its technological superiority and seamless coordination with other branches of the Armed Forces.
“Operation Sindoor showcased how air power can decisively shape strategic outcomes. The IAF’s radar and sensor network, Surface-to-Air Missile units and Counter-Unmanned Aerial Systems, operating under the Integrated Air Command and Control System, displayed exemplary efficiency,” the CDS said.
“In an era of technology-driven warfare, air power shall remain the dominant force in modern combat,” he asserted, saluting the IAF’s role as a first responder during humanitarian crises and a guardian of national sovereignty.
A Salute to Operation Sindoor and the Air Warriors’ Valour
The Air Chief Marshal A.P. Singh, Chief of the Air Staff, led the ceremonial parade and inspected the formation of men and machines that represent India’s cutting-edge air capabilities. In his Special Order of the Day, he praised the IAF’s role in Operation Sindoor, calling it “a defining moment in India’s contemporary military history.”
“Through Operation Sindoor, we reaffirmed the primacy of air power in shaping military outcomes. Our air warriors displayed unmatched courage, precision, and professionalism — the hallmarks of the Indian Air Force,” the Air Chief said.
Launched on May 7, 2025, Operation Sindoor was India’s swift, coordinated retaliatory strike in response to the Pahalgam attack. The IAF executed deep strikes on nine terrorist camps in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir and key military installations within Pakistan, employing indigenous aircraft, precision weapons, and real-time coordination through the IACCS — marking a new era of self-reliant air warfare.
Air Power on Full Display
The air show at Hindon featured state-of-the-art aircraft, including Rafale, Tejas, Sukhoi-30 MKI, and C-17 Globemaster, performing awe-inspiring manoeuvres alongside the Sarang helicopter team and Akash Ganga skydivers, symbolising strength, precision, and unity.
As the national flag soared high and the skies thundered with supersonic roars, thousands of spectators stood in ovation — saluting the guardians of India’s frontiers.
A Legacy of Glory, a Future of Strength
From the Himalayas to the Indian Ocean, from disaster relief to strategic operations, the Indian Air Force has been at the forefront of national defence and humanitarian service for over nine decades. The 93rd Air Force Day not only celebrated this proud legacy but also reaffirmed India’s resolve to maintain technological edge, operational readiness, and unwavering commitment to national security.
“The Indian Air Force doesn’t just guard our skies — it inspires a billion dreams to soar higher,” said an officer at Hindon, as the celebrations concluded with the national anthem and a resounding flypast.
