IAF to enhance capabilities, says East Air Command chief

FROM OUR STAFF CORRESPONDENT

SHILLONG, Oct 3: Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief (AOC-in-C) Eastern Air Command Air marshal Hari Kumar said that the Indian Air Force is in a transition state with a focus on future air capability. Speaking briefly to newsperson in the sidelines of the Vajra festival at the Shillong Advanced Landing Ground (ALG) on Saturday, Air Marshall Kumar stated, “The Indian Air Force is a hase of transition. We are relooking at our capabilities and see what we get for our tomorrow to ensure a befitting fight to the enemy.”

The AOC-in-C did not make any reference to any inductions to enhanced the air force capability in the eastern theater but he was vivid in paying tribute to those who had work hard to make the Indian Air Force what is today.

The two-day ‘Vajra Air Fest ‘ which is part of the Air Force Day celebrations showcase the ‘Spirit of Adventure’ which epitomizes the Indian Air Force. A very large numbers of people of Shillong participated in the air fest. School children in hundreds came to witness the spectacle held once every year for the people of Shillong. The fest commenced with the release of balloons by the chief guest Air Marshal Hari Kumar.

Fly past by three Mi-17 helicopters in ‘VIC’ formation was the first of the applauded events of the day The formation was led by Wing Commander Mukul Khare of 118 helicopter Unit, known as ‘The Challengers’. The Air Force Band and aero-modeling by NCC cadets punctuated the main events amidst appreciation by the knowledgeable crowd. The loudest cheers were heard for the MiG- 27 fly past at 840 Kmph. the three aircraft formation was led by Group Captain G Singh.

The Air Force commandos “Garuds’ performed the slithering operation and filly eight ‘Air Devils’ The skydiving team of The Indian Air Force, skydived and landed at the desigted area to the thrill of all present. The other attractions were the static display of helicopters which were free to be photographed. The Air Force Commandos had on display their specialized equipment used by them. Food stalls were in great demand at the Air Fest. It may be mentioned that, the entire sequence of events will be repeated on the Oct 4 too.