Air Chief Marshal Arup Raha Wednesday said the Indian Air Force is strengthening its capacity and the situation in the neighbourhood requires "operation readiness"."Our air defence capability is being further strengthened by the induction of modern sensors and weapon system," the Indian Air Force chief said while addressing the 82nd Air Force Day celebrations."The global security environment has witnessed paradigm shift and the deteriorating environment in our neighbourhood is a matter of concern for us," Raha said while laying stress on readiness.
"The nation reposes great trust in professionalism... It is our responsibility to ensure high operational readiness to respond swiftly," he said.The Air Force Day celebrations, held at the Air Force Station here on the edge of the national capital, was also attended by army chief General Dalbir Singh and navy chief Admiral R.K. Dhowan.Cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar, who is an honorary group captain in the IAF, also attended the event. Tendulkar donned the air force uniform and was accompanied by his wife Anjali.One Bar to Vayu Sena Medal, 19 Vayu Sena Medals for gallantry, 15 Vayu Sena Medals, and 30 Vishisht Seva Medals were also awarded to air force officers and personnel on the occasion.
The celebrations were marked by air display, which had a spectrum of transport and fighter aircraft of the IAF, including Mi-17V5, Hercules C-130, AN-32, Jaguar, MiG-21 Bison, MiG-29 Baaz, Mirage 2000 and Su-30 MKI.The air show, which left the spectators spell bound, involved different formations and display of flares by the aircraft. The classic 80-year-old, single-engine propeller Tiger Moth aircraft won hearts when it flew past the parade ground, coloured in bright orange.Air display by the Sarang Team, with its four peacock painted helicopters, was an attraction of the show.