The Indian Air Force today displayed its prowess, showcasing its new strategic force multipliers, mid-air refuellers and unmanned aerial vehicles as Air Chief S. Krishanswamy declared IAF had become ‘‘a force to reckon with in the region’’.‘‘We are already a professional force and now we are in the process of turning into an elite one,’’ he said as IAF celebrated its 71st anniversary today. An impressive parade and a fly past by SU-30, Mirage 2000, Mig 21 Bison and other fighter aircraft at the Palam Technical Area marked the occasion.As the representatives of world and regional military powers watched, a huge IL 78 aircraft flown by Group Capt Shouvik Roy appeared straight in front of the dais. On either sides were two Sukhoi jets, refuelling from the main tanker.The tanker formation was one of the day’s highlights in the flypast and it really impressed the Marshal of the IAF, Arjan Singh.Also taking part in the flypast were the IAF’s upgraded Israeli acquired searcher and Heron UAVs. These spy drones were on public display for the first time.Recalling the rapid strides made by the country in the development of Light Combat Aircraft (LCA), Advance Light Helicopter (ALH), jet trainer and upgradation of Cheetah helicopter, Krishnswamy praised the scientists for their superb work.‘‘The mission computer of SU-MKI is indigenously designed and developed,’’ he said.
