The Indian Air Force (IAF) commemorated its historic 1971 war victory on Wednesday with a spectacular aerial display at Air Force Station Mohanbari in Dibrugarh, as part of the Vijay Diwas Celebration 2025. Chief of Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal Amar Preet Singh, attended the event, which showcased the formidable power and precision of the IAF’s fleet.
The day-long celebration, organised by Headquarters Eastern Air Command, captivated a massive audience, including military and civil dignitaries, air veterans, and hundreds of enthusiastic schoolchildren. The awe-inspiring flying display featured some of the IAF’s most potent aircraft, including the mighty Sukhoi Su-30 fighters, Dornier Do-228 surveillance aircraft, Antonov An-32 transport planes, and both Chinook heavy-lift and Mi-17 helicopters.
The aerial demonstration, running from 9 am to 2.30 pm, was a testament to the operational proficiency of the Indian Air Force. “Witnessing the sheer precision of these machines and the professionalism of our air warriors firsthand instills immense confidence,” said a school student who witnessed the event.
In addition to the high-octane flying, the event featured an exhibition and a special movie release, both dedicated to commemorating the 1971 war that culminated in the liberation of Bangladesh. The commemoration holds profound significance for the Eastern Air Command, which mounted instrumental air operations from bases like Mohanbari to achieve air superiority and decisively support ground troops.
The presence of the Chief of Air Staff highlighted the importance of the event. The Defence Minister Rajnath Singh’s planned visit, however, was cancelled due to unknown reason.
