Chennai, the vibrant capital of Tamil Nadu, is gearing up to host a spectacular airshow today, marking the 92nd anniversary of the Indian Air Force. The event promises to be a dazzling display of aerial prowess and a testament to the IAF’s dedication to ensuring the country’s safety and sovereignty.
The Marina Beach, a popular destination known for its scenic beauty, will transform into a stage for the air show, with a carefully planned choreography of aircraft maneuvers. The event has drawn a large crowd, eager to witness a breathtaking demonstration of the IAF’s capabilities. The Greater Chennai Police, mindful of the enormous crowd, have deployed a force of over 8,000 personnel, including 6,500 police officers and 1,500 home guards, to ensure smooth operations and a safe environment for all attendees.
The sky above Chennai will come alive with the roar of 72 aircraft, including the sophisticated Rafale fighter jets, the indigenously developed Tejas light combat aircraft, and the formidable Sukhoi 30 MKI. The iconic Sarang helicopter display team, renowned for their synchronized maneuvers, and the Surya Kiran aerobatic team will also take to the skies, captivating the audience with their precision and skill.
The airshow will not only showcase the IAF’s technological advancements but also highlight its commitment to self-reliance. This year’s theme, ‘Bhartiya Vayu Sena – Saksham, Sashakt, Atmanirbhar,’ emphasizing ‘potent, powerful, and self-reliant,’ encapsulates the IAF’s unwavering dedication to strengthening India’s defense capabilities. The event serves as a platform to demonstrate the IAF’s commitment to safeguarding India’s airspace and protecting its national interests.
This is the third time the Air Force Day celebrations are being held outside Delhi, and it is the first time the airshow is being hosted in South India. This strategic move by the IAF aims to broaden the reach of these celebrations and bring the spectacle to new audiences across the country. The airshow will conclude with a two-hour grand finale at 1:00 pm, leaving spectators in awe of the IAF’s capabilities.
The airshow can be viewed live on the official YouTube channels of Doordarshan National and Doordarshan Tamil. Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin are the chief guests at the event, joined by the Chief of the Air Staff — Air Chief Marshal AP Singh, Chief Secretary N Muruganandam, Tamil Nadu Ministers, and senior air force officers, reported The Hindu.
