The Indian Air Force has celebrated its 79th anniversary today. Ever since its inception as Royal Indian Air Force in 1932, the IAF has been one of India’s most potent force against the challenges we have faced. Of late, the IAF has been the main instrument of emerging India’s power projection not only in South Asia but in west too. Air Force station Chandigarh being a transport base provides vital support to the Army and Air Force units located in the inhospitable terrain in the Himalaya’s which is cut off for most of the year due to snow.
The air bridging is undertaken by the station day in and day out, rain or shine. In addition Air Force Station Chandigarh has been involved in every war, relief mission. In addition to this Air Force Station Chandigarh has also undertaken relief missions in Afghanistan, China, Pakistan, Sri Lanka and even the United States of America. Humanitarian assistance and disaster relief is another important task undertaken by this station. In the latest Sikkim earthquake the station IL 76 moved there and undertook relief operations.
Air Cmde SC Chafekar, AOC, Air Force Station, Chandigarh had created history by landing at Daulat beg Oldie in 2009, which is one of the highest landing strip. The other two historic landings were at Nyoma & Fukche. The landing on this advanced landing ground is continuing to support Army Troops.
To commemorate the 79th anniversary of Indian Air Force, various activities were conducted at the Air Force Station, Chandigarh. Air Cmde SC Chafekar paid tribute to Martyrs leading a wreath laying ceremony at war memorial of the Station. He also administered oath to the air warriors on the occasion of Indian Air Force Day. Other functions include Social Evening at Officers Mess, SNCO’s at Home, Cocktail at SNCOs Mess, Barakhana for Airmen. These events were witnessed by Ex Air Warriors and veterans of Indian Air Force staying at Chandigarh and its vicinity.