Indian Air Force fighter jets soaring during a precision strike mission, highlighting India’s aerial defense strength (Photo: AI Generated)
Since independence, the Indian Air Force (IAF) has been a bedrock for safeguarding the sovereignty of the country and projecting military might. The operational history of the IAF, encompassing various wars and operations has been a saga of defending against Indian territory giving witness to tremendous strategic capacity and technological advancement and marking the IAF as one of the formidable forces to reckon with in South Asia.
From 1947 through 1999, the IAF played a central role in the four major conflicts dividing India and Pakistan as the IAF during the Bangladesh Liberation War of 1971 and in the Kargil conflict of 1999 contextualizing their major support for the achieved victories and gains the IAF even more recognition. The ability to ensure air superiority which undertake precision strikes and support combat operations has been a critical factor for India during these turbulent times.
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The IAF was in December 1961 instrumental in Operation Vijay, which terminated over four centuries of Portuguese colonial rule in Goa, Daman and Diu. The Air Force's support was crucial in ensuring the swift conclusion of the military campaign, in close coordination with the Army and Navy which showcases the IAF's ability to conduct joint force operation on very short notice.
Contested terrain at the Siachen Glacier became an arena wherein the IAF exhibited an exemplary logistical capability during Operation Meghdoot with airlifting troops, equipment and supplies to the world's highest and probably the toughest battlefield, the IAF ensured that the Indian forces remained in control of strategic heights in sustaining troops under extreme weather and harsh conditions and consolidated India's claim to this region.
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The 26th of February 2019 saw the restoration of the IAF in a meticulously planned airstrike targeting terror camps deep inside Pakistani territory in Balakot. The operation marked a huge change in India's posture concerning counter-terrorism and willing to set aside the traditional bulwarks marked by the Line of Control. The airstrike which was a direct retaliation for the terror attacks in Pulwama was meant to signal India's determination to hit back at terrorists on their own territory with precision and coordinate airstrike.
The IAF launched Operation Sindor in May 2025 against nine following terrorist attacks in Jammu & Kashmir. The Air Force neutralized terrorist camps and Pakistani air defense systems with exceptional precision and planning. The operation demonstrated the effective decisive role of the IAF in shaping the military landscape to further the national security objectives through aerial combat capability.
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Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and reflects publicly available data about Indian Air Force operations and history as of 2025.
