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Journalism of Courage
A demonstration of the Indian Air Force’s (IAF) elite Garud Special Forces and precision skydiving were among various displays conducted by the IAF as part of the Air Awareness Campaign at Air Force Station at Pune’s Lohegaon on Friday as part of the Know Your Forces programme. The event was attended by over 10,000 school and college students, the IAF said.
A post on X by the Gandhinagar headquartered South Western Air Command read, “IAF conducted an air awareness campaign at Air Force Station Lohegaon as part of ‘Know Your Forces’. The event showcased IAF’s war fighting potential, inspiring students and youths to consider a career in the IAF.”
“The event featured a breathtaking display of precision skydiving and display of fighter aircraft, equipment flypast. The crowd applauded as the IAF’s elite teams demonstrated their agility, teamwork and combat readiness, highlighting the capabilities of the frontline platforms that safeguard India’s airspace. The air awareness campaign aimed to inspire the nation’s youth to consider a career in the Armed Forces and raise awareness about the IAF’s military potential. Interactive sessions with Air Warriors, ground teams and onsite outreach activities gave attendees a unique insight into life in the Armed Forces.” a release from the IAF said.
“The static display of aircraft and systems, coupled with thrilling demonstration of the ‘Garud Force’ and aeromodelling display left visitors especially youngsters in awe, offering a rare glimpse into the IAF’s operational prowess. Air Commodore Satbir Singh Rai, Air Officer Commanding, Air Force Station Lohegaon, expressed appreciation for the efforts of the Civil Administration in extending support to make the event a grand success.” the release added.
IAF base at Lohegaon in Pune — which is in the area of responsibility of the Gandhinagar headquartered Southern Western Air Command — is home to two squadrons of the Sukhoi 30 MKI — the ’20 Squadron’ also known as Lightnings and the 30 Squadron also known as ‘Rhinos.’
The Garuds (Special Forces of the IAF) were formed in 2003 towards providing specific in-house role capabilities to the IAF. Garuds are specially trained to be a Quick Reaction Force at important IAF bases, protect IAF high value assets, conduct search and rescue during the peace and war, and undertake counter-terrorism tasks and special missions. They are regularly tasked to assist civil authorities for disaster relief operations during calamities. Garuds have been effectively employed in Indian missions in support of the UN and during extrication of Indian nationals from war zones.
