Indian Air Force Unveils New Ensign on 91st Anniversary
On its 91st anniversary, the Indian Air Force (IAF) Chief, Air Chief Marshal Vivek Ram Chaudhari, introduced a fresh Ensign for the force. This unveiling took place alongside the Air Force Day parade, held this year at Air Force Station Bamrauli in Prayagraj.
The new Ensign
The highlight of the new Ensign is the inclusion of the Air Force Crest, positioned in the top right corner towards the fly side. This updated emblem reflects the IAF’s renewed spirit and vision, emphasizing its commitment to excellence.
Exciting Displays
In a remarkable move, the Sarang helicopter display team has upped the ante by transforming into a five-helicopter military display team. They’ve set the stage for an exhilarating performance on the occasion of Air Force Day, scheduled for October 8 in Prayagraj.
Adding to the excitement, the newly inducted C-295 transport aircraft made its debut appearance in an Indian air display. This momentous event showcased the IAF’s commitment to modernization and growth. Meanwhile, the legacy MiG-21 Bison made its likely final appearance in an air display, as it’s slated for phased retirement by 2025.
A Vision for the Future
Addressing the parade, ACM Chaudhari expressed the IAF’s determination to overcome challenges and transform them into opportunities. He highlighted the importance of reducing dependency on imports by fostering indigenous capabilities, a key goal in today’s geopolitical landscape.
Global Reach and Air Power
The theme for this year’s Air Force Day was ‘IAF – Air Power Beyond Boundaries,’ aptly capturing the essence of air power’s global reach. Air Chief Marshal Chaudhari emphasized the vital role of air power in rapid deployment, humanitarian assistance, disaster relief, and peacekeeping missions worldwide.
Historic Parade
This year’s Air Force Day Parade made history as it was commanded by Group Captain Shaliza Dhami, the first woman officer to lead the event. She’s also the first woman officer to command a combat unit in the IAF. Additionally, the parade featured an all-women contingent, the Agniveer Vayu team, marking another milestone.
Unit Citations
During the parade, the Air Chief presented Unit Citations to four distinguished IAF Units—16 Squadron, 142 Helicopter Unit, 901 Signal Unit, and 3 Base Repair Depot—for their exceptional contributions to the service.
Live Stream – Air Force Day Flypast 2023 https://t.co/oCqHsEclFC
— Indian Air Force (@IAF_MCC) October 8, 2023
Spectacular Air Display
Following the parade, an awe-inspiring air display unfolded on the banks of the Triveni Sangam in Prayagraj. The spectacle featured approximately 108 IAF aircraft, Dhruv Advanced Light Helicopters from the Indian Army, and a P-8I aircraft from the Indian Navy. The Surya Kiran and Sarang display teams also added to the visual extravaganza.
New Ensign Design
The IAF’s Ensign has undergone a significant transformation. In its historical context, the Royal Indian Air Force (RIAF) Ensign featured the Union Jack and the RIAF roundel. Post-independence, the Indian tricolour replaced the Union Jack, and the IAF tricolour roundel replaced the Royal Air Force roundels.
The new IAF Ensign symbolizes the Force’s values and heritage. The IAF Crest features the Ashoka lion, the national symbol, at the top, with the words ‘Satyameva Jayate’ in Devanagari beneath it. Below the Ashoka lion is a Himalayan eagle with outspread wings, representing the IAF’s fighting spirit. Encircling the eagle is a light blue ring with the words ‘Bharatiya Vayu Sena,’ and the IAF’s motto in golden Devanagari below the eagle.
This redesigned Ensign encapsulates the IAF’s rich legacy and its unwavering commitment to safeguarding the skies.