17+ Interesting Facts About Indian Air Force in English [Download PDF]

Reading facts about the Indian Air Force can help aspirants understand its history, significance, and role. Established in 1932, the Indian Air Force (IAF) is one of the most powerful air forces in the world. It has played a crucial role in guarding India’s air boundaries by participating in several major wars. Did you know the Indian Air Force also extends disaster relief in affected areas? Moreover, India also celebrates 8 October as Indian Air Force Day to commemorate its establishment. In this blog, you will read more interesting facts about the Indian Air Force, its history, and so much more. Let’s get started. 

Historical Facts About Indian Air Force 

Here is a list of interesting historical facts about the Indian Air Force:

• The Indian Air Force was established on 8 October 1932 by the British Empire.
• After India gained independence, the prefix Royal was removed from the official name of the Air Force.  
• The first aircraft flight of the Indian Air Force came into being on 1 April 1933. It had six RAF-trained officers and 19 Havai Sepoys, also known as air soldiers. 
• In 1939, the Chatfield Committee approved raising five flights- Coastal Defence Flights (CDF).
• It is the first among the Indian Armed Forces to introduce women into combat roles. 
• Avani Chaturvedi, Bhawana Kanth, and Mohana Singh together made the first batch of female fighter pilots. 
• It is the only elite special force to have used the Ilyushin Il-76 for Combat Airlift. 

Interesting Facts About the Indian Air Force 

Discover some fascinating historical facts about the Indian Air Force.

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7 Commands of the Indian Air Force and their Headquarters

The Indian Air Force (IAF) consists of multiple commands, each responsible for particular operations and duties. Together, these commands maintain the air security of the country by defending. Here is a list of the 7 commands of the Indian Air Force and their headquarters in India.

Command of the IAF	Headquarters
Eastern Air Command	Shillong
South-Western Air Command	Gandhinagar
Southern Air Command	Thiruvananthapuram
Western Air Command	New Delhi
Central Air Command	Allahabad
Maintenance Command	Nagpur
Training Command	Bangalore

Indian Air Force Fighter Planes List

The Indian Air Force (IAF) is renowned for its fighter planes, each designed to play a specific role and ensure the success of missions. These aircraft are also capable of supporting various operational needs and conducting strikes. 

Name	Type of aircraft
C 17 GlobeMaster	Military transport aircraft
Apache	Tandem-rotor helicopter
ALH	Utility helicopter
Chinook	Tandem-rotor helicopter
LCA Tejas	Multirole combat aircraft
Rafale	Multirole fighter aircraft
C130 J Hercules	Military transport aircraft
PC-7 MKH Pilatus	–
Hawk	Tandem-seat Aircraft
Sarang	HAL Dhruv helicopters
Skat	–

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Interesting Facts About the Life and Training of Indian Air Force Personnel

Let’s gain insights into the life and training of Indian Air Force personnel through interesting facts.

1. Every Indian Air Force officer starts their journey at the Air Force Academy in Dundigal, near Hyderabad. Life here is tough but purposeful. Cadets wake up early, push their limits physically and mentally, and learn what it means to lead with discipline and integrity. For pilot trainees, this is where they first take to the skies.

2. After their basic training, cadets move on to specialised courses. Pilots head to flying schools in Hakimpet or Bidar. Engineers train at the Air Force Technical College in Bengaluru. Those in ground duties sharpen their skills at administrative or logistics academies. Each path prepares them for high-stakes challenges they will face in the real world.

3. From the very beginning, the Indian Air Force supports its cadets. They receive a stipend of ₹56,100 per month. Food, housing, books, and uniforms are fully covered. This ensures that no one’s dreams are limited by personal finances, just by their determination and effort.

4. Once commissioned, officers live and work at Air Force stations across India. Their days are structured around duty, training, and readiness. But beyond that, they enjoy a full life, sports facilities, libraries, schools for their children, and a close-knit community that supports one another.

5. The IAF looks after its personnel. Through its insurance scheme, it provides coverage up to ₹1.10 crore, with an additional amount for pilots. Medical care is free for both officers and their families at top-notch Air Force hospitals. This peace of mind allows them to serve the nation with complete focus.

Interesting Facts About the Role of Indian Air Force in War and Peacekeeping Missions

Gain insight into the interesting role of the Indian Air Force in both war and peacekeeping missions.

1. From the first war in 1947 to the Kargil conflict in 1999, the Indian Air Force has stood strong. In 1971, during the war that led to the creation of Bangladesh, IAF pilots flew over 4,000 sorties and took control of enemy airspace. Their precision and courage shaped the outcome of that historic battle.

2. After the Pulwama attack in 2019, the IAF carried out a bold and swift response. Using Mirage-2000 fighter jets, it targeted and struck terror camps deep inside Pakistan. This operation proved that the IAF not only defends but also acts decisively when needed.

3. The Indian Air Force does not just protect at home, it also serves the world. Under the United Nations banner, IAF helicopters and teams have helped maintain peace in Africa, including missions in Congo, Sudan, and Sierra Leone. Their work supports both stability and humanitarian aid.

4. Garud commandos are specially trained Air Force warriors. They train for over a year in counter-terrorism, rescue operations, and base protection. Whether it’s guarding critical installations or supporting army operations in tough terrain, these commandos are always ready for action.

5. During natural disasters, the Indian Air Force is often the first to respond. In the 2013 Uttarakhand floods, they airlifted more than 20,000 people to safety. In the COVID-19 pandemic, they flew across the country with oxygen, medicines, and vaccines.

Download All Information About Indian Air Force (PDF)

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So, these were some interesting facts about the Indian Air Force. From their rigorous training and brave missions to their role in helping others during crises, the IAF continues to protect and serve the nation with great dedication and pride.

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