IAF Air Force Day 2026: Parade at Hindon

The Indian Air Force marked its 94th Air Force Day on Thursday with a ceremonial parade at Hindon Air Force Station in Ghaziabad and a tarmac display that put some of its best-known aircraft and weapons systems within view of invited guests.

Air Chief Marshal A P Singh, described in reports as the outgoing chief, arrived at the parade venue in a vintage car from the 1960s as three helicopters flew past in ‘Dhwaj’ formation. The ceremony drew the three service chiefs, other senior military leaders and several former chiefs of the air force.

On the ground, the service set out a static line-up of frontline platforms, including Rafale, Su-30MKI and Jaguar fighter jets. Helicopters on display included the Light Combat Helicopter (LCH) Prachand and the ALH Dhruv. Critical weapons and air defence systems were also placed on show.

Chief’s message on readiness

Addressing the gathering at Hindon, Singh tied the day’s celebration to operational readiness, arguing that the air force’s measure is not only the hardware it fields but the people who operate and maintain it.

“Our true strength lies in Air Warriors,” he said.

Singh framed his remarks against a shifting global security climate. “Today, the world is going through rapid changes, leading to uncertainty and intricate geopolitical challenges. New conflicts are emerging across different parts of the world. These events have clearly demonstrated that air power is the primary means of protecting national interests,” he said.

He added that the Indian Air Force, as “the custodian of air power”, understands its responsibilities and remains “always alert, committed, and ready” to meet them.

The Air Force Day observance is held annually on October 8 to honour the establishment of the Indian Air Force in 1932, when it was raised under British rule as the Royal Indian Air Force. The “Royal” prefix was dropped in 1950.

The service’s motto, “Nabhah Sparsham Diptam”, is commonly translated as “Touch the sky with glory”.

Leaders in New Delhi used the day to salute personnel, veterans and their families.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi said India was proud of its air warriors and praised their “courage and commitment to protect our skies” in a message posted on X.

President Droupadi Murmu, also posting greetings, said the air force had rendered exemplary service while maintaining high standards of professionalism, discipline and preparedness.

In her message, Murmu referred to Operation Sindoor, saying it demonstrated the courage, precision and operational preparedness of Indian air warriors in safeguarding the country’s security. She also noted the air force’s role in assistance during disasters and humanitarian crises.

What comes next

While Hindon remained the focal point on Thursday, further public-facing events are scheduled later this month.

The Central Air Command is set to host special public aerial displays in Kashi, also known as Varanasi, on October 22, 24 and 25, according to reports. The displays are expected to feature a mix of fighter jets, transport aircraft and helicopters.

Air Force Day is observed by several countries as a military holiday recognising their air force, often carrying the same standing as an armed forces day. In India, the date has become a fixed point for ceremonies at major air stations, tributes to those who serve, and public demonstrations meant to connect a technical, high-tempo service with the people it protects.

Thursday’s parade and display at Hindon followed that pattern: a formal salute, a close look at equipment, and a message that the force’s edge depends as much on its personnel as on the machines lined up on the tarmac.