On This Day – 8th October 1932 : Indian Air Force Day: The Day India’s Wings Took Flight 

The 8th of October 1932 marks the inception of the Indian Air Force (IAF). From a modest beginning of six Indian officers and a handful of planes, IAF has grown into one of the most respected air forces in the world. This day each year is celebrated as Indian Air Force Day in recognition of the courage, talent, and the everlasting memory of our air warriors.

The Beginning of the Indian Air Force

The Indian Air Force was established on 8 October 1932, during the British Raj. The first squadron, the No. 1 Squadron IAF, was established in 1933 with six Indian officers who were trained at the Royal Air Force College in Cranwell. They flew the simple, two-seat, Westland Wapiti aircraft which were the first aircraft the IAF officers Mukerjee and his batchmates flew during the start of their aviation service.

These officers were the first of many in what was, at the start, a small air force but one which carried the dreams of a country still under colonial rule.

Indian Air Force During World War II

The IAF was much larger during the Second World War. Indian pilots were in the fore and centre of the Allied operations in Burma, where they flew dangerous missions and were exposed to harsh weather. These events would define the history of the Indian Air Force, and build the confidence of their officers and the IAF as a whole.

From Independence to Modern Power

The Indian Air Force became the defender of a free nation In India since Independence in the year 1947. We’ve celebrated IAF Day every year since October 8, 1950. The highlight of these celebrations is the air shows on the Hindon Air Base, where we have the privilege of watching jets like Rafale and Sukhoi-30MKI fighters, watching helicopter displays, and the entertaining Surya Kiran aerobatic team.

Why Indian Air Force Day Matters

More than a celebration, Indian Air Force Day is a marker of the legacy and growth of the IAF, from having just six officers and a few biplanes, to a modern and full-fledged military force. It pays tribute to the coverts of the nation, and motivates the youth to take on the mantle of service.

Every year on October 8, the nation recalls the day the Indian Air Force took to the skies.

References

• Indian Air Force – Official Website: https://indianairforce.nic.in

• Ministry of Defence, Government of India: https://mod.gov.in

• Press Information Bureau (PIB) – Indian Air Force Day Releases: https://pib.gov.in

• Wikipedia – History of the Indian Air Force: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Indian_Air_Force

• Hindon Air Force Station – Air Force Day Events: https://indianairforce.nic.in/air-force-day