The Indian Air Force (IAF) is the air arm of the Indian Armed Forces. It was officially established on 8th October 1932 as an auxiliary air force of the British Empire and the prefix “Royal” was added in 1945 in recognition of its services during World War II. After India gained independence from Britain in 1947, the prefix was dropped and it became the Indian Air Force.
Indian Airforce airshow video
Primary Mission of Indian Airforce
The primary mission of the Indian Air Force is to secure Indian airspace and to conduct aerial warfare during a conflict. It is responsible for the defence of Indian airspace, aerial reconnaissance, tactical and strategic airlift, and providing air support to ground forces. The IAF is also involved in humanitarian and disaster relief operations and has played an important role in several such missions, both within India and abroad.
Indian Airforce Fighter Plane
The Indian Air Force operates a range of aircraft, including fighter jets, transport planes, helicopters, and reconnaissance planes. Its fighter fleet includes the Sukhoi Su-30MKI, Dassault Mirage 2000, Mikoyan MiG-29, and HAL Tejas. The transport fleet includes the C-17 Globemaster III, C-130J Super Hercules, and Antonov An-32. The IAF also has a number of helicopters, including the Mi-17, Mi-35, and HAL Dhruv.
Indian Airforce Strength
The Indian Air Force is one of the largest air forces in the world, with over 1.4 lakh personnel and more than 1,500 aircraft. It has played a crucial role in several conflicts, including the 1965 and 1971 India-Pakistan Wars, the Kargil War in 1999, and the recent tensions with China along the Line of Actual Control. The IAF is also involved in joint exercises with other air forces, including the United States Air Force and the Royal Air Force.