TOP GUNS: Indian Air Force shows its might

The Indian Air Force celebrated its 82nd Air Force Day at the Hindon base on Wednesday.

Fighter aircraft present an air show during the 82nd Air Force Day function at Air Force Station Hindon. Photograph: PTI photo

Sachin Tendulkar, the first sportsperson to be made an honourary group captain in the Indian Air Force, attended their 82nd anniversary in Hindan.

Sachin Tendulkar, an honorary Group Captain in IAF, and his wife Anjali with Navy Chief Admiral RK Dhowan. Photograph: PTI photo

The flypast comprised aircraft like the MIG-21, MIG-29, Sukhoi-30 MKI, Globemaster, Hercules and Mirage 2000 which performed various daring maneuvers, enthralling the audience.

Sarang helicopters fly in a formation during the 82nd Air Force Day function. Photograph: PTI photo

Sachin, accompanied by his wife Anjali, was present in uniform. He was conferred the honorary rank in November last year, to honour his extraordinary achievements in cricket.

IAF personnel perform with guns during the function. Photograph: PTI photo

On the occasion, Prime Minister Narendra Modi too saluted the air force personnel, saying they are the nation’s pride and their bravery and commitment continues to inspire. “On Air Force Day, I salute our air force personnel. They are our pride and their bravery, commitment and dedication continues to inspire,” Modi said.

Air Chief Marshal Arup Raha shakes hands with Army chief Gen Dalbir Singh Suhag during the 82nd Air Force Day function. Photograph: PTI photo

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