NPN

The Indian Air Force will celebrate its 93rd Air Force Day on October 8, dedicated to the valiant warriors of Operation Sindoor. Continuing this tradition of valor, the Air Force will honor its warriors with a total of 97 gallantry awards for their unparalleled courage and valor. Pakistan Air Attacks Thwarted In addition, seven forward squadrons that displayed exceptional valor during Operation Sindoor and thwarted nearly every Pakistani air attack will be awarded Unit Citations. The Air Force's state-of-the-art platforms and squadrons played a crucial role in decisively shaping the outcome of the operation. S-400 Triumph Air Defense Regiment: This regiment, capable of neutralizing long-range aircraft and ballistic threats, intercepted and destroyed Pakistani missile threats and has been awarded the Unit Citation. Rafale fighter jets (No. 17 Squadron “Golden Arrows”): Rafale aircraft, equipped with advanced avionics and long-range air-to-air and air-to-ground weapons, ensured that no Pakistani aircraft could enter Indian airspace. This squadron will be awarded a Unit Citation. Su-30MKI with BrahMos (No. 222 Squadron “Tiger Sharks”): Su-30MKIs, equipped with the BrahMos air-launched cruise missile, carried out precision deep strike missions against terrorist bases and fortified targets, and this squadron was also awarded a Unit Citation. Loitering-Munition Unit: This specialized unit, operating tactical loitering munitions (kamikaze UAVs), provided persistent surveillance, rapid and precise strikes, and real-time battle damage assessment. This unit hovered over contested areas, identifying fleeting targets, and quickly striking high-value and time-sensitive targets, disrupting enemy defense networks. During Operation Sindoor, it significantly enhanced its combat capability and was also awarded a Unit Citation. The soldiers displayed gallantry. In addition to these unit honors, the air warriors who directly participated in Operation Sindoor and displayed gallantry in the line of duty will also be awarded gallantry awards on Air Force Day. These weapons defeated the enemy. The Rafale, Su-30 MKI with BrahMos, S-400 air defense systems, loitering-munition units, and the courage of individual air warriors combined to decisively disrupt Pakistan's air threats and shatter its offensive capabilities, demonstrating the Indian Air Force's technological edge, professionalism, and indomitable spirit.