New Delhi: On the occasion of 88th anniversary of Indian Air Force Day, the induction of new platforms as well as training, the IAF has emerged as a dominant regional force that has proven its capabilities from time to time, most recently, with the Balakot strikes that destroyed the terror hideouts in Pakistan, across the line of control.
The main attraction of the IAF Day parade is Rafale, underlining the importance of which, IAF chief RKS Bhadauria had said – “Integration of Rafales brings in a platform which is way ahead and would give us an edge and capability to strike first and deep.”
Rafale fighter jet carried out a minimum radius turn within an area smaller than a hockey field forming a figure of eight, on the 88th IAF day, at Hindon airbase.
The Rafale flew in the ‘Vijay’ formation, flanked by two Jaguars and Mirage 2000 each. It also carried out a minimum radius turn within an area smaller than a hockey field forming a figure of eight.
#WATCH Rafale fighter jet carries out a minimum radius turn within an area smaller than a hockey field forming a figure of eight, on the 88th IAF day, at Hindon airbase pic.twitter.com/3GB7CMs0YX
— ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) October 8, 2020
The IAF also showcased its heli-lift capability with two Chinooks carrying a container and a field artillery gun underslung over the parade venue. The tandem-rotor helicopter is one of the most reliable and efficient heavy-lift helicopters around the world.
Chinook, with its operating ceiling of 20,000 feet, will redefine heli-lift operations in the country that includes operations like inter-valley transport of troops, airlifting artillery guns and heavy underslung loads for the Border Roads Organisation (BRO).
It can also be used to deploy artillery guns at high altitude positions with the China border in the northeast.
