Chief of Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal AP Singh on Tuesday highlighted the need for the Indian Air Force (IAF) to realign itself to meet the present and future requirements as the global security environment is in a state of constant flux.

The ongoing conflicts have demonstrated the requirement to have a strong and capable Air Force. Therefore, there is a need for the IAF to be prepared to meet any contingency that challenges our national interest, he noted.

After reviewing the Parade at the Air Force Station in Tambaram near Chennai on the occasion of 92nd Annual IAF Day celebrations, he said, “Adopting the latest technology along with innovative and out-of-the-box thinking will play a decisive role in today’s multi-domain environment.”

Prime Minister Narendra Modi lauded Air Force personnel for their courage and professionalism as he greeted them on the Air Force Day. The day is observed to mark the anniversary of the institution and to commemorate the sacrifices made by air warriors.

Modi said in a social media post, “Air Force Day greetings to our brave air warriors. Our Air Force is admired for their courage and professionalism. Their role in protecting our nation is extremely commendable”.

IAF chief recalled that last year the Indian Air Force made a significant stride in strengthening operational capabilities, enhancing professionalism and adapting to ever-evolving challenging modern warfare.

“The global security environment is in a state of constant flux. Ongoing conflicts have demonstrated the requirement to have a strong and capable air force. Therefore, there is a need for the Indian Air Force to be prepared to meet any contingency that challenges our national interest,” he said.

Referring to the theme of this year’s Annual Day, ‘Bharatiya Vayu Sena: Saksham, Sashakt, Atmanirbhar’ (Potent, Powerful and Self-Reliant), IAF chief said, “it perfectly describes our aspirations.”

“Over the years, we have become more empowered with better technology and achieved new levels of operational exploitation of our systems and weapons.”

He pointed out that the past year was very eventful and the Air Force proved its mettle on various fronts. In 2024, the IAF chief said, the Air Force expanded its participation in bilateral and multilateral exercises with Air Forces of friendly foreign countries.

“We also conducted the largest multi-national exercise Tarang Shakti on the Indian soil after a gap of 61 years with participation from Air Forces of more than 30 nations,” he added.

“We have been always the first responder in any calls of humanitarian assistance and disaster relief both within India and abroad. In the last one year, the Indian Air Force has been called upon to provide flood relief in many locations while fighting forest fires in some other,” IAF chief said.

The Indian Air Force beyond the borders, also played an important role in relief and evacuation from many countries, he added.