Air Force chief's daring paradrop marks IAF 74th anniversary

Hindon, Ghaziabad, Oct 8 (UNI) Chief of Air Staff S P Tyagi parajumped his way to take the salute at the Hindon Air Base as 80 aircraft, including Sukhoi 30 MKI, Mirage 2000 and MIG 25 fighter jets, displayed their awesome air power to mark the 74th anniversary of the Indian Air Force.

It was one of the IAF's grandest displays ever as the fighter jets, helicopters and mid-air re-fuellers took to the skies during the traditional flypast.

Air Chief Marshal Tyagi led by example by participating in a daring paradrop at the IAF celebrations held for the first time outside Delhi.

The flypast and parade, held at Palam over the years, were shifted to the outskirts to give the IAF more space to display its might and also to avoid disruption of commercial air traffic to and from the Capital.

The other highlight of the day was the stunning display of combat manoeuvre that included the simulation of the defence airbase from attacking enemy aircraft.

Chief of Air Staff Tyagi later gave away gallantry and meritorious service awards to IAF personnel.

In his speech, he said the IAF was capable of protecting India's interest outside the country.

After the Navy, the IAF has now asserted its capability to protect India's interests far from the country's shores.

Army chief Gen J J Singh, Navy chief Adm Arun Prakash and Marshal of the IAF Arjan Singh were among the large number of dignitaries who attended the show.

UNI YJ VD VV1448