Indian Air Force (IAF) will be celebrating its 91st anniversary on 08 Oct 23. As a prelude to the Air Force Day celebrations, the IAF held a fascinating aerial display at Bhopal on 30 September 2023, showcasing its power, while also motivating the youth to choose the IAF as a career.
The residents of Bhopal witnessed the mega air display by the Indian Air Force over the picturesque Bhojtal lake. Nearly 50 aircraft, airborne from various air bases near and far, participated in the display. The Hon’ble Governor of Madhya Pradesh, Shri Mangubhai Chhaganbhai Patel graced the occasion as the Chief Guest. The Hon’ble Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh, Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan, along with several civil and military dignitaries, also joined the event and witnessed the spectacular air show.
The impressive air display commenced with the Akashganga team, with 10 air warriors skydiving from a Mi-17 helicopter. The Formation flying by Su-30 MKI, Mirage-2000, Jaguar, Kiran Mk II, Tejas, C-130 Hercules, IL-78, An-32, CH-47 Chinook, Mi-17 and Chetak showcased the professionalism of the IAF. Another highlight was the demonstration of aerial refueling, where a Su-30 MKI provided fuel to an LCA and an IL-78 replenished a Mirage 2000 fighter.
This was followed by a range of aerobatics by the indigenous Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas and the Su-30 MKI. The Surya Kiran Aerobatics Team and the Sarang helicopter display team made their mark with their perfectly timed and synchronised manoeuvres.
With the culmination of this successful display, the focus now shifts to Prayagraj, where the ceremonial parade for the Air Force Day shall be held in the morning on 08 October 2023, followed by an aerial display over the Sangam in the afternoon on the same day.
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ABB/AM/AS
