Indian Air Force Day 2025: Date, significance, parade highlights, and all you need to know

The Indian Air Force (IAF) celebrates its 93rd Air Force Day on 8 October 2025, showcasing the strength, discipline, and modernisation of India’s aerial defence forces. The day is a tribute to the men and women of the IAF and highlights their operational readiness, technological advancements, and humanitarian contributions.

When and Where is Indian Air Force Day 2025 Celebrated?

This year, the IAF Day 2025 will be held at the Hindon Air Force Base in Ghaziabad. The celebrations include a grand parade, aircraft flypasts, and displays of advanced aerial weaponry. While the Full Dress Rehearsal on Monday faced disruptions due to rain, officials remain confident that the main event will proceed flawlessly, offering a spectacular showcase of India’s air power.

Significance of Indian Air Force Day 2025 and Focus on Operation Sindoor

The 93rd Air Force Day is significant as it commemorates the IAF’s continuous service in defending India’s airspace and enhancing national security. The 2025 celebrations particularly focus on Operation Sindoor, India’s swift response against Pakistan-based terrorist infrastructure after the Pahalgam attack in April.

Chief of Air Staff Air Chief Marshal AP Singh is expected to highlight the IAF’s role in the operation, including the destruction of key assets that forced Pakistan to seek a ceasefire following diplomatic communication between Director Generals of Military Operations (DGMO).

Indian Air Force Day 2025 Parade Line-Up and Aircraft Display

The parade will feature a wide range of aircraft, showcasing India’s air combat and transport capabilities. Key highlights include:

Frontline fighter jets: Rafale, Sukhoi Su-30MKI, and MiG-29

• Indigenous systems: Netra AEW&C system, Akash Surface-to-Air Missile, S-band Rohini radar
• Heavy-lift aircraft: C-17 Globemaster III, C-130J Super Hercules
• Helicopters: Apache attack helicopter with Longbow radar, Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH)
• Tribute to MiG-21 Bison: Retired after serving over six decades, including in Operation Sindoor

The event also demonstrates India’s growing defence technology capabilities and the operational versatility of the Air Force.

IAF’s Growing International Engagements and Space Achievements

The IAF will highlight its increasing international footprint through participation in exercises such as Red Flag Alaska, Desert Knight, Udara Shakti in Malaysia, and Bright Star in Egypt.

Additionally, the Air Force celebrates Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla’s 2025 mission to the International Space Station, marking a historic first in human spaceflight by the IAF.

IAF’s Humanitarian Efforts and Disaster Response Highlighted

During the dress rehearsal, the IAF emphasised its role as a first responder in humanitarian missions. Recent efforts include:

• Flood relief in Uttarkashi and Punjab
• Earthquake response in Myanmar
• Swift assistance during other national and international emergencies

This focus demonstrates that the IAF is not only prepared for combat operations but also plays a crucial role in saving lives and providing aid during disasters.

Key Takeaways from Indian Air Force Day 2025

The 93rd Air Force Day underscores the IAF’s operational readiness, technological advancements, and humanitarian contributions. Highlights include:

• Grand parade and aircraft flypasts
• Focus on Operation Sindoor and national security achievements
• Display of indigenous defence technology and international collaboration
• Celebration of human spaceflight milestones
• Recognition of the IAF’s role in humanitarian and disaster relief missions

As India celebrates IAF Day 2025, the event serves as a reminder of the Air Force’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding the nation and contributing to global peacekeeping efforts.