News for 'indian-air-force'

Spectacular IAF Helicopter Rehearsal In Varanasi

Spectacular IAF Helicopter Rehearsal In Varanasi

Rediff.com3 days ago

Glimpses of Indian Air Force helicopters rehearsing for this weekend's air show in Varanasi.

Indian Air Force Shows Operational Versatility On Expressway

Indian Air Force Shows Operational Versatility On Expressway

Rediff.com22 Apr 2026

The Indian Air Force demonstrated its operational versatility by landing various military aircraft on an emergency airstrip on the Purvanchal Expressway in Uttar Pradesh.

PM Modi Praises Air Warriors' Courage And Commitment On Air Force Day

PM Modi Praises Air Warriors' Courage And Commitment On Air Force Day

Rediff.com8 Oct 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended his greetings to Indian Air Force personnel on Air Force Day, praising their courage and commitment. He highlighted the IAF's ability to use advanced technology, including data and drones, to counter adversaries and ensure national security.

IAF Showcases Air Power At Tarang Shakti

IAF Showcases Air Power At Tarang Shakti

Rediff.com8 Oct 2026

Glimpses of Indian Air Force aircraft flying in formation during Exercise Tarang Shakti 2026 in Jodhpur on Wednesday, October 7, 2026.

HC bars disclosure of PM's foreign trips on IAF plane citing national security

HC bars disclosure of PM's foreign trips on IAF plane citing national security

Rediff.com4 days ago

The Delhi High Court has overturned a Central Information Commission (CIC) order that mandated the disclosure of information regarding the Prime Minister's foreign visits on IAF aircraft under the RTI Act. The court cited national security concerns and the physical safety of the Prime Minister, stating that no sufficient larger public interest was demonstrated to override these risks. It also noted that the CIC erred in directing disclosure of Special Foreign Returns (SFR) - II.

'This Is How The Indian Air Force Will Fight Going Forward'

'This Is How The Indian Air Force Will Fight Going Forward'

Rediff.com16 May 2026

The IAF's future operational concepts could involve indigenous Tejas combat aircraft coordinating in real time with multiple Ghatak RPSAs, each carrying a different mission payload ranging from electronic warfare systems and targeting sensors to precision munitions.

No US offer for F-35 jets to India, Su-57 decision pending: IAF chief

No US offer for F-35 jets to India, Su-57 decision pending: IAF chief

Rediff.com11 Oct 2026

Indian Air Force Chief Air Chief Marshal A P Singh stated on Saturday that the US has not officially offered F-35 fighter jets to India, and no final decision has been made regarding Russia's Su-57 proposal. He made these remarks during the concluding ceremony of the multinational air exercise Tarang Shakti-2026.

'Dream come true': IAF chief takes final sortie in Kiran aircraft

'Dream come true': IAF chief takes final sortie in Kiran aircraft

Rediff.com5 days ago

Air Chief Marshal A P Singh, the outgoing IAF chief, flew his final sortie aboard an HJT-16 Kiran Mk-1 trainer aircraft at the Air Force Academy in Hyderabad, bringing his distinguished flying career full circle. The flight was particularly special as he flew with his first flying instructor, Wing Commander V S Kochar (retd), marking an emotional reunion and a tribute to his journey. He is set to superannuate on October 31.

No room to 'stand still': IAF Chief on lessons from Op Sindoor

No room to 'stand still': IAF Chief on lessons from Op Sindoor

Rediff.com4 hours ago

Air Chief Marshal AP Singh stated on Sunday that the Indian Air Force's Operation Sindoor demonstrated its capability to strike targets across the Western front, serving as a warning to adversaries. He highlighted the operation's validation of the IAF's capability-centric approach, indigenous weapon systems, and commitment to zero collateral damage, while also outlining the force's long-term vision for 2047 to become a multi-domain aerospace power.

IAF chief warns of depleting fighter squadron strength

IAF chief warns of depleting fighter squadron strength

Rediff.com4 Oct 2026

Air Chief Marshal AP Singh has voiced concerns over significant delays in inducting new combat jets, including the Tejas aircraft, which are impacting the Indian Air Force's depleting fighter squadron strength. He stressed the need for annual induction of 36-40 jets to address the gaps and discussed ongoing procurement plans like the MRFA deal and future strategies for combat aircraft and theatre commands.

Rafale Marine trials begin in Goa for INS Vikrant operations

Rafale Marine trials begin in Goa for INS Vikrant operations

Rediff.com3 days ago

Trials of the Rafale Marine fighter aircraft are being carried out in Goa by the Indian Navy. The trials are for the modifications to the aircraft required for carrying out operations from the Indian aircraft carrier INS Vikrant, Defence officials said on Wednesday.

Air Chief Marshal Singh Takes NCC Cadet On Memorable Sortie

Air Chief Marshal Singh Takes NCC Cadet On Memorable Sortie

Rediff.com2 days ago

IAF Chief Air Chief Marshal AP Singh undertook a flying sortie with NCC cadet Jakkula Tejasvi Reddy on October 20 at the Air Force Academy, Dundigal. This special flight, part of Singh's final sorties before superannuation, aimed to familiarise the cadet with aviation and encourage defence careers, aligning with the 'Viksit Bharat -2047' vision.

Alert and ready, says IAF chief on Air Force Day

Alert and ready, says IAF chief on Air Force Day

Rediff.com8 Oct 2026

Air Chief Marshal A P Singh stated on Thursday that the IAF's operational capabilities are advancing and the force is prepared for any challenges, highlighting its growth into a world-class, multi-domain force during the 94th Air Force Day celebrations in Hindan. He also mentioned his upcoming superannuation and the display of combat assets.

Air Marshal Ashutosh Dixit is new chief of air staff

Air Marshal Ashutosh Dixit is new chief of air staff

Rediff.com6 Oct 2026

Air Marshal Ashutosh Dixit has been appointed as the 29th Chief of Air Staff, succeeding Air Chief Marshal AP Singh, who will superannuate on October 31. Dixit currently serves as the Vice Chief of the Indian Air Force.

Tejas takes centre stage as India, Japan air chiefs fly sortie in Rajasthan

Tejas takes centre stage as India, Japan air chiefs fly sortie in Rajasthan

Rediff.com20 Sep 2026

Indian Air Chief Marshal Amar Preet Singh and Japan Air Self-Defence Force (JASDF) Chief of Staff General Takehiro Morita took off from Air Force Station Jodhpur in Tejas aircraft on Sunday during the ongoing Indo-Japan bilateral air exercise 'Veer Guardian-2026'.

Pak-China 5th Gen fighter jet deal cause of worry, but...: IAF chief

Pak-China 5th Gen fighter jet deal cause of worry, but...: IAF chief

Rediff.com3 Oct 2026

Air Chief Marshal AP Singh, Chief of Air Staff, has expressed significant concern over the inordinate delays in inducting new combat jets, including the indigenous Tejas aircraft, stating that these delays are severely impacting the Indian Air Force's depleting fighter squadron strength. He highlighted the need for 36-40 new fighter jets annually to address these gaps and voiced worry over Pakistan's collaboration with China on a fifth-generation fighter jet.

The Rescue Mission That Came Full Circle

The Rescue Mission That Came Full Circle

Rediff.com16 Oct 2026

For nearly three decades, the two sides of the story had existed independently. One had been recorded in a pilot's logbook; the other carried in the memory of a young boy who had survived a terrible accident, recalls Air Commodore Nitin Sathe (retd).

Embraer, Mahindra eye Nagpur for C-390 Millennium production

Embraer, Mahindra eye Nagpur for C-390 Millennium production

Rediff.com2 Oct 2026

Aerospace major Embraer and the Mahindra Group have identified Nagpur as a potential manufacturing hub for the C-390 Millennium military transport aircraft, should their bid for India's multi-billion-dollar Medium Transport Aircraft (MTA) deal be successful. This strategic partnership aims to establish a localised production and support ecosystem in India, aligning with the 'Make in India' initiative and strengthening the country's indigenous aerospace capabilities.

Lockheed Martin eyes major India production boost for transport aircraft

Lockheed Martin eyes major India production boost for transport aircraft

Rediff.com4 Oct 2026

Lockheed Martin aims to significantly expand its manufacturing capabilities in India, particularly through its partnership with Tata Advanced Systems Limited, if it secures the bid to supply 60 medium transport aircraft to the Indian armed forces. The proposal includes local production of 48 aircraft and an upgrade for the existing IAF C-130J fleet.

Indian Air Force to set up Tejas engine maintenance facility with GE Aerospace's help

Indian Air Force to set up Tejas engine maintenance facility with GE Aerospace's help

Rediff.com13 Apr 2026

The Indian Air Force (IAF) is establishing a maintenance facility for GE Aerospace's F404-IN20 jet engines, which power the Tejas light combat aircraft, with technical support from GE Aerospace. This initiative aims to enhance India's indigenous defence capabilities and reduce reliance on overseas repair centres.

Indian Air Force's Tejas Fleet Set to Fly Again After Software Glitch Resolved

Indian Air Force's Tejas Fleet Set to Fly Again After Software Glitch Resolved

Rediff.com2 Apr 2026

The Indian Air Force's Tejas light combat jets are scheduled to return to the skies next week after being grounded for two months due to a software glitch. HAL expects to deliver over 20 Tejas Mark 1A variants by December, but delays persist due to engine supply issues.

Watch: Army Dog's Historic Sky Jump

Watch: Army Dog's Historic Sky Jump

Rediff.com30 Sep 2026

In a first, Indian Army's combat dog jumps from a plane with handler, paratrooper.

Manali Soars With Paragliding Pre-World Cup

Manali Soars With Paragliding Pre-World Cup

Rediff.com9 Oct 2026

The four-day Paragliding Accuracy Pre-World Cup has commenced at Solang Nala in Manali, Himachal Pradesh, featuring 42 pilots from multiple countries. The event, inaugurated by Minister Rajesh Dharmani, aims to promote adventure sports and tourism in the region, with strict safety standards in place.

HAL Delivers Advanced Trainers And Helicopters To IAF And Pawan Hans

HAL Delivers Advanced Trainers And Helicopters To IAF And Pawan Hans

Rediff.com18 Sep 2026

State-run defence major Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) has delivered LCA Tejas Final Operational Clearance twin-seater trainers and HTT-40 basic trainer aircraft to the Indian Air Force, along with Dhruv next-generation helicopters to Pawan Hans. This significant handover, witnessed by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, marks a crucial step in India's journey towards self-reliance in the aerospace sector, showcasing HAL's diverse capabilities in military, civil, and training aviation.

F-35 stealth fighters set for first tactical drills with IAF

F-35 stealth fighters set for first tactical drills with IAF

Rediff.com22 Sep 2026

In a major operational milestone, US fifth-generation F-35 stealth fighter jets are set to participate in joint combat drills alongside the Indian Air Force (IAF) for the first time during the upcoming multinational air exercise Tarang Shakti 2026.

Dronathon 2026: IAF Boosts Indigenous Drone Capabilities In Jaisalmer

Dronathon 2026: IAF Boosts Indigenous Drone Capabilities In Jaisalmer

Rediff.com14 Sep 2026

The Indian Air Force has launched 'Dronathon 2026' at the Pokhran range in Jaisalmer, a three-day event showcasing advancements in unmanned aerial systems (UAS) and counter-UAS technologies by domestic manufacturers. The initiative aims to bolster the IAF's capabilities in the unmanned domain, align with the 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' objective, and assess indigenous technologies against operational requirements through live demonstrations. It also fosters interaction between the IAF, industry, and even students, promoting the development of scalable unmanned solutions.

How The MiG 21 Saved The Day!

How The MiG 21 Saved The Day!

Rediff.com26 Sep 2026

A stranded message that failed for three days over telephone lines was delivered in minutes by a MiG-21 pilot flying above the desert.

HAL hands over LCA Tejas, HTT-40 trainer aircraft to IAF; Dhruv NG helicopters to Pawan Hans

HAL hands over LCA Tejas, HTT-40 trainer aircraft to IAF; Dhruv NG helicopters to Pawan Hans

Rediff.com18 Sep 2026

Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) has delivered LCA Tejas FOC twin-seater trainers and HTT-40 basic trainer aircraft to the Indian Air Force, and Dhruv next-generation helicopters to Pawan Hans. This significant handover, witnessed by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, marks a crucial step in India's journey towards self-reliance in the aerospace sector, showcasing HAL's capabilities across military, civil rotary-wing, and pilot training aviation.

Hasina's arrival in Delhi was 'unexpected': Indian envoy in Dhaka

Hasina's arrival in Delhi was 'unexpected': Indian envoy in Dhaka

Rediff.com4 Oct 2026

Indian High Commissioner to Bangladesh, Dinesh Trivedi, clarified that former Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's arrival in New Delhi two years ago was unexpected and not facilitated by the Indian military. He addressed ongoing extradition requests from the current Bangladeshi government, stating India acted out of duty during tragic circumstances in Bangladesh.

150 illegally staying Bangladeshis in J-K to be deported

150 illegally staying Bangladeshis in J-K to be deported

Rediff.com6 Oct 2026

Jammu and Kashmir has begun the deportation process for Bangladeshi nationals allegedly staying illegally in the region, with 150 individuals already shifted to West Bengal. This action follows a survey identifying around 600 illegal immigrants and coincides with the Union Home Ministry's High-Level Committee on Demographic Change (HLCDC) investigating illegal immigration across India.

'He Shot Down One Aircraft, Damaged The Second, Got The Third, Fourth To Flee'

'He Shot Down One Aircraft, Damaged The Second, Got The Third, Fourth To Flee'

Rediff.com25 Sep 2026

'I can't imagine anybody else doing the kind of things he did in the war,' Group Captain Deb Gohain asserts about Flight Lieutenant Alfred Tyrone Cook, the 1965 War hero who passed into the ages last week.

India to buy CBRN recce vehicles, helicopters, mine layers for Rs 1.10 lakh cr

India to buy CBRN recce vehicles, helicopters, mine layers for Rs 1.10 lakh cr

Rediff.com7 Sep 2026

The Defence Acquisition Council, led by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, has approved the procurement of military hardware worth an estimated Rs 1.10 lakh crore for the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force. This significant move aims to enhance India's combat prowess and reduce dependency on foreign vendors, with approximately 98 per cent of procurements sourced from Indian industry.

Top Lashkar terrorist Mohammed Asif killed, was part of Musharraf's team

Top Lashkar terrorist Mohammed Asif killed, was part of Musharraf's team

Rediff.com30 Sep 2026

Mohammed Asif, alias Hashim Moosa, a top Lashkar-e-Taiba terrorist and a retired havildar from the Pakistan Army's elite Special Services Group (SSG) who once served in former president Pervez Musharraf's security convoy, was killed in a gunfight in central Kashmir's Budgam district.

India's Aerospace Future Takes Flight With HAL Deliveries

India's Aerospace Future Takes Flight With HAL Deliveries

Rediff.com18 Sep 2026

State-run Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) has delivered LCA Tejas FOC twin-seater trainers and HTT-40 basic trainer aircraft to the Indian Air Force, and Dhruv Next Generation helicopters to Pawan Hans. This significant handover, attended by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and Civil Aviation Minister K Rammohan Naidu, underscores India's progress towards self-reliance in aerospace, strengthening both military and civil aviation capabilities with indigenous platforms.

IAF hero Abhinandan Varthaman, who downed Pak jet, joins private airline

IAF hero Abhinandan Varthaman, who downed Pak jet, joins private airline

Rediff.com3 Sep 2026

Varthaman, who downed an enemy jet during an aerial combat with Pakistan in 2019 and was held captive for three days in that country, was honoured with the Vir Chakra award in 2021.

Puja Before Helicopters Are Handed Over

Puja Before Helicopters Are Handed Over

Rediff.com19 Sep 2026

HAL has handed over a new batch of indigenous aircraft, marking another step in India's domestic aerospace manufacturing programme. The company delivered two LCA Tejas FOC twin-seater trainers to the IAF, completing twin-seater deliveries under the FOC contract.

'Honey-trapped' IAF officer held for leaking defence data to Pak operative

'Honey-trapped' IAF officer held for leaking defence data to Pak operative

Rediff.com8 Aug 2026

A serving Indian Air Force officer faces arrest and charges under the Official Secrets Act for allegedly sharing sensitive military information after being honey-trapped by a Pakistani intelligence operative on social media.

Shakti Sharma makes history as first woman non-medical Air Vice Marshal

Shakti Sharma makes history as first woman non-medical Air Vice Marshal

Rediff.com2 Sep 2026

Air Vice Marshal Shakti Sharma has achieved a historic milestone, becoming the first woman officer (non-medical) in the Indian Defence Forces to attain the rank of Air Vice Marshal. She has been appointed Assistant Chief of the Air Staff (Education) at Air Headquarters, bringing over three decades of diverse experience, including establishing IAF Chairs of Excellence and commanding a Sainik School.

The Importance Of Veer Guardian

The Importance Of Veer Guardian

Rediff.com21 Sep 2026

The political confidence required to place high-end Japanese aircraft and personnel on Indian soil is itself a data point.
It indicates a level of trust that would have been difficult to imagine when India-Japan defence ties were largely symbolic, explains Varun Arya.

India ready for dialogue with Bangladesh on all issues, says MEA

India ready for dialogue with Bangladesh on all issues, says MEA

Rediff.com23 Sep 2026

India's Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated that India desires positive, constructive, and forward-looking ties with Bangladesh and is ready to discuss all bilateral issues. This comes amidst queries regarding the state of relations following a change in Bangladesh's government and upcoming international engagements.