IN PICS: IAF displays its might with Rafale, Apache, Tejas, and others during the annual Air Force Day airshow

• The Indian Air Force (IAF) showed off the might of its fighter jets and helicopters during the annual Air Force Day parade today.
• IAF’s newest acquisitions, the Rafale fighter jets, were seen taking to the skies during the Air Force Day’s signature air show.
• Other aircraft in the IAF’s arsenal — including Apache, Tejas, ‘Gajraj’ and others — also took to the spotlight to highlight their prowess.

The Indian Air Force (IAF) kicked off its 88th anniversary celebrations today amid border tensions with China as well as Pakistan. The signature IAF Parade was hosted at the Air Force Station in the outskirts of Delhi at Hindan.

Even though the events related to Air Force Day celebrations were scaled down due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic this year — the IAF still put the best of the best on display.

“IAF is undergoing a transformational change. We're entering an era that will redefine aerospace power & conduct integrated multi-domain operations. I am delighted to command this elite force,” said Air Chief Marshal RKS Bhadauria addressing the troops.

The parade was accompanied by an airshow of IAF's frontline warplanes like Rafale, Su-30MKI, Apache, Tejas, and 'Gajraj' to showcase lethal firepower of the armed forces branch. It also featured vintage aircraft like the Tiger Moth and Dakota DC-3.

Overall, 56 aircraft participated in the exercise — including 19 fighters and seven transport aircraft along with 19 helicopters.

Here are a quick look at the India’s might in the sky on display during the annual IAF parade: