Key Points
- Indian Air Force celebrates 93rd Raising Day on October 8, 2025, with grand parade at Hindon Air Base, Ghaziabad
- CDS General Anil Chauhan and three Service Chiefs paid homage at National War Memorial, Delhi, before main ceremony
- Operation Sindoor takes center stage IAF destroyed 12-13 Pakistani aircraft, damaged runways at two bases and radars at four locations
- S-400 ‘Sudarshan Chakra’ system achieved record 300-km strike, destroying Pakistan’s airborne early warning aircraft
- Special tribute to retired MiG-21 Bison after over six decades of service, including deployment in Operation Sindoor
- Parade features Rafale, Sukhoi Su-30MKI, MiG-29, C-17 Globemaster III, Apache helicopters, and indigenous systems
- Air Chief Marshal AP Singh highlights IAF’s humanitarian missions, international exercises, and Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla’s ISS mission
- Separate flypast ceremony scheduled for mid-November in Guwahati
New Delhi: The Indian Air Force is celebrating its 93rd Raising Day today, October 8, 2025, with immense pride and patriotic fervor, showcasing nearly a century of dedicated service to the nation. The grand celebrations at Hindon Air Force Base in Ghaziabad mark the force’s continuous evolution as a formidable defender of India’s skies and a critical component of national security.
Tributes at National War Memorial
The historic day began with solemn tributes at the National War Memorial in Delhi, where Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Anil Chauhan, along with the three Service Chiefs, paid homage to the brave martyrs who made supreme sacrifices for the nation. This poignant ceremony set the tone for the day’s celebrations, honoring the legacy of courage and sacrifice that defines India’s armed forces.
Following the memorial tribute, the main ceremonial parade commenced at Hindon Air Base in Ghaziabad, where Air Chief Marshal AP Singh reviewed the impressive display of India’s aerial might.
Operation Sindoor: The Centerpiece of 2025 Celebrations
This year’s Air Force Day celebrations place unprecedented emphasis on Operation Sindoor, India’s swift and decisive response to Pakistan-based terrorist infrastructure following the devastating Pahalgam attack in April 2025. The operation has become a defining moment in the IAF’s recent history, demonstrating exceptional coordination, indigenous capabilities, and strategic precision.
Air Chief Marshal AP Singh provided detailed insights into the operation’s remarkable achievements during his address. The IAF successfully destroyed 12-13 Pakistani combat aircraft, severely damaged airfields at multiple locations, and neutralized critical military infrastructure. Specifically, radar installations at four locations were destroyed, command and control centers at two strategic points were disabled, and runways at two major bases were rendered inoperational.
Record-Breaking S-400 Strike
One of the most significant achievements highlighted during the celebrations was the extraordinary performance of India’s S-400 Triumf long-range surface-to-air missile system, nicknamed ‘Sudarshan Chakra’. The system executed a precision strike at an unprecedented distance of over 300 kilometers, successfully destroying one of Pakistan’s airborne early warning aircraft.
“It will go down as the longest kill we achieved, of more than 300 kilometres,” Air Chief Marshal Singh stated with pride. This historic strike demonstrates the advanced capabilities of India’s air defense systems and marks a new milestone in the IAF’s operational achievements.
The Air Chief also categorically dismissed Pakistan’s counterclaims of shooting down Indian aircraft as “Manohar Kahaniyan” (fictional stories), emphasizing that these claims were completely unsubstantiated and lacked any credible evidence. He noted that Operation Sindoor was “one war started with a clear objective and terminated in quick time without prolonging it,” showcasing India’s strategic precision and restraint.
Honoring 97 Air Warriors and MiG-21 Bison Legacy
The ceremony includes recognition of 97 brave air warriors who displayed extraordinary courage during Operation Sindoor, honoring their indomitable spirit and dedication to the nation. These heroes exemplify the values of valor and commitment that define the Indian Air Force.
A particularly poignant moment of the celebrations is the special tribute to the MiG-21 Bison, which has been retired after serving the IAF for over six decades. This legendary aircraft, which earned its place in aviation history, was deployed during Operation Sindoor before its final retirement, creating a fitting end to its distinguished service record. IAF spokesperson Wing Commander Jaideep Singh confirmed the aircraft’s participation in the recent operation, adding historical significance to its farewell.
Spectacular Aerial Display and Military Hardware
The Hindon Air Base parade features an impressive lineup of India’s most advanced military aircraft and systems, demonstrating the country’s growing air power capabilities. The celebrations showcase frontline fighter jets including the French-made Rafale, Russian Sukhoi Su-30MKI, and MiG-29, representing the IAF’s multi-role combat capability.
Heavy-lift transport aircraft including the American C-17 Globemaster III and C-130J Super Hercules demonstrate India’s strategic airlift capabilities, essential for rapid deployment and humanitarian missions. The parade also features advanced rotary-wing platforms including the Apache attack helicopter equipped with Longbow radar and the indigenous Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH).
Significantly, the display includes indigenous defense systems that showcase India’s progress toward self-reliance in defense technology. These include the Netra Airborne Early Warning and Control (AEW&C) system, the Akash Surface-to-Air Missile system, and the S-band Rohini radar—all developed domestically as part of the Make in India initiative.
Flag Flypast and Air Warrior Drill Team
The parade commences with a symbolic “Dhwaj Flypast” featuring an MI-171(V) helicopter carrying the Indian tricolor, the Air Force flag, and the Operation Sindoor flag, paying tribute to the successful mission. This powerful visual representation honors both the nation and the recent operational achievements.
A major attraction of the ceremony is the IAF’s elite “Air Warrior Drill Team,” consisting of 18 highly trained personnel who perform precision rifle drills with remarkable synchronization. Their flawless execution demonstrates the discipline, dedication, and skill that characterize the Indian Air Force.
Heritage Flight and Historical Legacy
The “Heritage Flight” segment features vintage aircraft performing aerial maneuvers, taking spectators on a journey through the IAF’s glorious 93-year history. These aircraft represent the evolution of India’s air power from the first conflicts in 1947 through various wars and operations to the present day. The juxtaposition of legacy and modern aircraft creates a powerful visual narrative of continuity and progress.
Air Chief Marshal’s Vision for the Future
In his address on the eve of Air Force Day, Air Chief Marshal AP Singh articulated a comprehensive vision for the IAF’s future while acknowledging its present readiness. He emphasized that in the current complex global security environment, air power has emerged as a crucial and indispensable component of national defense strategy.
“Protecting the country’s borders, citizens, and military bases is our supreme responsibility, and our commitment is unwavering,” the Air Chief declared, saluting all air warriors as “the true guardians of the skies”. He assured the nation that the Air Force maintains complete operational readiness to face any challenge, regardless of its nature or magnitude.
Discussing the IAF’s modernization roadmap, Air Chief Marshal Singh stated that the force is rapidly advancing on the path of innovation, cutting-edge technology, and self-reliance. “We are continuously strengthening our combat capabilities and will continue to protect the nation’s skies with utmost dedication in the times to come,” he emphasized.
Exemplary Coordination in Operation Sindoor
Air Chief Marshal Singh specifically highlighted Operation Sindoor as an outstanding example of seamless coordination, visionary leadership, and indigenous capabilities among the three armed forces. He stated that this operation proves conclusively that when military forces unite with a common objective, no goal is impossible to achieve. The successful execution of the operation within a compressed timeframe, with clear objectives and minimal collateral impact, demonstrates India’s evolving military doctrine and strategic maturity.
Humanitarian Service: First Responders in Crisis
Beyond combat operations, the Air Chief emphasized the IAF’s critical humanitarian role, which has become an integral part of its identity. He pointed out that during natural disasters such as floods, earthquakes, or emergency evacuations of Indian citizens from conflict zones abroad, the Air Force has consistently been the first responder.
Recent humanitarian operations highlighted during the celebrations include flood relief missions in Uttarkashi and Punjab, earthquake assistance in Myanmar, and various other national and international emergency responses. Operations such as ‘Operation Sindhu’ and ‘Operation Brahma’ exemplify the IAF’s commitment to humanitarian service, representing the best traditions of military compassion and civic responsibility.
Growing International Engagement
The 93rd Raising Day celebrations also showcase the IAF’s expanding international footprint and growing recognition among global air powers. The force participated in several prestigious international exercises throughout 2025, demonstrating enhanced interoperability with allied nations.
These exercises include Red Flag Alaska (United States), Desert Knight (France), Udara Shakti in Malaysia, and Bright Star in Egypt. Such international engagements not only enhance the IAF’s operational capabilities but also strengthen India’s strategic partnerships and defense diplomacy.
Historic Space Achievement
A proud milestone for the IAF in 2025 is Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla’s mission to the International Space Station, marking the first human spaceflight mission by an Indian Air Force pilot. This achievement represents the IAF’s expanding role beyond traditional aerial domains into space operations, aligning with India’s growing space ambitions.
Weather Challenges Overcome
While Monday’s Full Dress Rehearsal faced disruptions due to rain, causing delays in the static aircraft display, IAF officials remained confident that the main event on October 8 would proceed flawlessly. Despite the weather-related challenges during preparations, the force demonstrated its characteristic resilience and adaptability to ensure a spectacular showcase of India’s air power.
Dual-Location Celebration Format
This year’s celebrations feature an innovative two-part format. The main ceremonial parade and aerial displays take place at Hindon Air Base on October 8, while a separate grand flypast event is scheduled for mid-November in Guwahati. This arrangement allows wider geographic participation and brings the Air Force Day celebrations closer to the northeastern region of the country.
Previous Air Force Day parades were hosted in Prayagraj in 2023 and Chennai in 2024, continuing the tradition of rotating the celebrations to different parts of India. The return to Hindon after three years adds special significance to this year’s event.
Gratitude to Veterans and Legacy
Air Chief Marshal Singh expressed profound gratitude for the rich legacy and inspirational leadership provided by Air Force veterans throughout the IAF’s history. He acknowledged that the achievements of current personnel stand on the strong foundation built by generations of dedicated air warriors who served the nation with distinction.
The Air Chief called veterans a continuous source of inspiration and reminded serving personnel of their responsibility to uphold and enhance the proud traditions inherited from their predecessors.
National Pride and Inspiration
The 93rd Air Force Day celebrations represent more than just a military parade—they embody national pride, inspire future generations, and reaffirm India’s commitment to defending its sovereignty. The event showcases the perfect blend of tradition, technological advancement, and forward-looking vision that characterizes the modern Indian Air Force.
Air Chief Marshal Singh concluded his address by wishing all countrymen a Happy Air Force Day and ended with the patriotic slogan “Jai Hind,” encapsulating the spirit of national service and dedication. The celebrations serve as a powerful reminder that the IAF remains fully prepared, technologically advanced, and unwavering in its commitment to safeguarding India’s skies and serving the nation in all circumstances.
The 93rd Raising Day marks a year of transition and transformation for the IAF—honoring legacy platforms like the MiG-21 while embracing cutting-edge systems such as the S-400, indigenous technologies, and space capabilities that define India’s next phase of air power projection. As the force continues its journey toward complete self-reliance and technological excellence, it remains steadfast as the true guardian of India’s skies.
