Air force day

Why is in news? Government approves creation of Weapon Systems branch in Indian Air Force

In a historic step for the Indian Air Force (IAF), Government has approved the creation of a new branch, called the Weapon Systems (WS) branch.

The creation of WS branch would entail unification of all weapon system operators under one entity dedicated to the operational employment of all ground-based and specialist airborne weapon systems.

The branch would encompass operators in four specialised streams of Surface-to-Surface missiles, Surface-to-Air missiles, Remotely Piloted Aircraft and Weapon System Operators in twin/multi-crew aircraft.

The branch will contribute immensely by enhancing the war fighting capability of the Indian Air Force.

Air Force Day:

Indians proudly celebrate October 8 as the day to pay tribute to the air warriors of Indian Air Force (IAF) who tirelessly defend the nation by securing the Indian airspace and conduct rescue operations during natural calamities.

The President of India is the Commander-in-chief of the IAF.

The year 2022the marks the90th anniversary of Indian Air Force (IAF).

Back in October 8, 1932, the Indian Air Force was officially established by the erstwhile British regime.

The first operational squadron was created in 1933 with six RAF-trained officers and 19 Havai Sepoys (air soldiers).

The force initially was created as an auxiliary air force of the British Empire's Royal Air Force during World War II.

IAF at that time used to be primarily deployed to destroy the Japanese air bases in Burma in a bid to stall Japanese invasion.

The day aims to pay a tribute to the Air Force of India and acknowledge their contribution for a successful nation.

Since 1950, the IAF has been involved in four wars with neighbouring Pakistan.

From the the Congo Crisis (1960-1966), the Annexation of Goa (1961), the Second Kashmir War (1965), the Bangladesh Liberation War (1971) to the Kargil War (1999), and the Balakot airstrike and the India-Pakistan standoff of 2019- the world has witnessed the saga of IAF's unflinching valour for a number of times.