IAF @ 83: Air Force puts up a grand show

The Indian Air Force on Thursday put up a scintillating display as part of its 83rd anniversary celebrations.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi greeted the IAF, saying it has served the country with great courage and has always been at the forefront in protecting our skies as well as in times of disasters.

"I salute our air force personnel on Air Force Day. They have always served India with great courage and determination," Prime Minister Modi tweeted.

"Contribution of our Air Force is monumental. They are always at the forefront be it in protecting skies or in times of disasters," he said.

The Air Force Day parade commenced with a fly past of "ENSIGN" formation comprising three Mi-17 V5 helicopters in VIC formation followed by the IAF ensign CHAKRA formation comprising three Mi-35.

This was followed by Hercules formation comprising three C-130J aircraft in VIC formation.

The fighter flypast was led by three Jaguar in formation, closely followed by three MiG-21 Bisons and SU-30 aircraft.

Shortly after that, the vintage Tigermoth and Harvard aircraft flew past at low level.

The the audience gathered at the Hindon airbase were treated to a fly past by a C-17 aircraft flanked by two SU-30 aircraft.

The new SKAT Aerobatic display team, comprising four HAWK aircraft, made its maiden appearance at the parade. Also making its debut was a Pilatus aircraft with this aerobatic display.

The air display culminated with a fabulous performance by the Sarang helicopter display team.