Chief of Defence Staff General NS Raja Subramani, who also serves as Secretary of the Department of Military Affairs, extended greetings and felicitations to all Indian Air Force personnel, veterans, civilians, and their families on the occasion of the IAF's 94th anniversary. The CDS paid tribute to the IAF's legacy of valour, professionalism, and selfless service, particularly lauding its sustained operational excellence and ability to employ air power decisively in contested and technology-driven battle spaces. He noted that this year's Air Force Day theme - "Indian Airforce: Infallible, Impervious and Precise" - captures the true essence and ethos of the force.
The CDS highlighted that the IAF has demonstrated across various operations that air power represents national power, resilience, and service, serving as testament to India's strategic prowess and commitment to safeguarding national sovereignty and security. He specifically commended the IAF's dependable role as first responder during Humanitarian Assistance & Disaster Relief operations both domestically and internationally, which has earned the trust and gratitude of all affected parties.
Acknowledging the IAF's progress toward Jointness, Aatmanirbharta (self-reliance), and Innovation (JAI), the CDS appreciated the induction of indigenous platforms, advanced weapon systems, and emerging technologies, along with the continuous evolution of operational concepts and doctrines. He also noted the IAF's participation in bilateral and multinational exercises, including the ongoing Exercise Tarang Shakti, which has helped strengthen interoperability, operational preparedness, and strategic partnerships. In his concluding message, the CDS exhorted all air warriors to remain steadfast in their commitment, unwavering in adversity, and purposeful in every mission.