![](https://bharatshakti.in/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/LT-BSI-Defence.gif")
The Indian Air Force on Thursday marked its 94th Air Force Day with a ceremonial parade and display of its frontline combat assets at Hindan Air Force Station, with Air Chief Marshal AP Singh asserting that the force remains fully prepared to meet emerging threats and underlining the growing importance of air power in modern warfare.
Addressing air warriors and guests at the celebrations, Singh said the IAF had demonstrated the speed and effectiveness of its combat operations during Operation Sindoor, and remained alert and prepared to deal with any challenge.
“We are alert, ready to meet any challenges. The IAF showed the speed of combat operations during Operation Sindoor,” he said.
Referring to conflicts in different parts of the world, the Air Chief said recent developments had reinforced the central role of air power in safeguarding a nation’s interests.
“Conflicts in parts of the world have shown that air power is the primary means of protecting the interests of a nation,” Singh said.
The celebrations began with a ceremonial parade at the Hindan air base, attended by the three Service Chiefs, senior military officials, former IAF chiefs and other dignitaries. The event also featured a display of the force’s major combat and support platforms, showcasing its operational capabilities.
Highlighting the IAF’s role beyond combat operations, Singh said the force had consistently responded to humanitarian emergencies, including devastating floods and severe wildfires.
“The Indian Air Force is renowned not only for its combat capability, but also for an unwavering commitment to serving the nation and humanity when the time comes,” he said, adding that air warriors had responded promptly to disasters by protecting lives and property and delivering relief to affected people.
Calling upon personnel to remain conscious of their individual responsibilities, Singh said every airman was an integral part of the organisation and urged them to ensure that no individual became a weak link in the force.
“Every airman is an important part of their organisation. We should all feel proud of our duties and responsibilities and remain determined that, no matter how difficult the situation is, I will not become a weak link that will weaken or break the Air Force chain,” he said.
For Singh, who is due to retire on October 31, the celebrations also marked the final Air Force Day of his tenure as Chief of the Air Staff. Reflecting on his tenure, he described leading the IAF as a matter of immense pride.
“Proud moment for me; serving as IAF Chief was my biggest fortune,” he said.
The government announced on October 6 that Vice Chief of the Air Staff Air Marshal Ashutosh Dixit would succeed Singh as the next Chief of the Air Staff. Dixit will take over on October 31 and will assume the rank of Air Chief Marshal on appointment.
An Experimental Test Pilot and Qualified Flying Instructor, Dixit has more than 3,500 hours of flying experience. He has held several key operational and strategic appointments, including as Chief of Integrated Defence Staff (CISC) at Headquarters Integrated Defence Staff and Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Central Air Command.
Dixit will be the 29th Chief of the Air Staff and the first officer to have commanded a Mirage-2000 squadron before going on to become Chief of the Air Staff.
Team BharatShati
