"OUR JOURNEY TO BECOMING THE FOURTH-LARGEST AIR FORCE IN THE WORLD HAS BEEN EXTRAORDINARY"

Indian Air Force (IAF) celebrated its 93rd anniversary on October 8, 2025, a day dedicated to honouring the valour, dedication, and professionalism of the nation's air warriors. The celebrations, held at Air Force Station Hindan, highlighted India's growing air power and the remarkable achievements of the IAF over more than nine decades.

- AIR CHIEF MARSHAL AMAR PREET SINGH

AIR CHIEF MARSHAL AMAR PREET SINGH, the Chief of Air Staff, addressed a distinguished gathering of senior officers, veterans, foreign dignitaries, and media representatives. His speech reflected pride in the IAF's extraordinary journey from humble beginnings to becoming the world's fourth-largest air force.

Prior to that, the Air Chief addressed the media on October 3, 2025, presenting an exclusive briefing on the Indian Air Force's recent Operations Sindoor and the strategic outlook for the future. He highlighted the swift and precise execution of Operation Sindoor, which targeted terror infrastructure in Pakistani-controlled territories, resulting in a decisive outcome within just four days. He also unveiled the IAF's ambitious Roadmap 2047, aimed at enhancing the Air Force's combat capabilities over the next two decades by fostering indigenous technology development, strategic partnerships, and modernisation. The press conference offered insights into operational readiness, the progress of indigenous programs like AMCA, views on joint commands, the importance of air power in modern warfare, and the Air Force's commitment to humanitarian missions, reflecting the holistic role the IAF plays in national security and public service.

How do you look at the journey of the Indian Air Force since its inception to the present day?

I feel deeply humbled but very proud—proud of our legacy wherein from the rattle of piston engines of just four aircraft to the thunderous roar of the modern air force, our journey to becoming the fourth-largest air force in the world has been extraordinary. I am proud that today I am part of an air force that is among the world’s most advanced in technology and capability.