Indian Air Force Reveals New Ensign

When was the new ensign released?

Air Chief Marshal (ACM) Vivek Ram Chaudhari, the Chief of Air Staff (CAS), introduced a new ensign for the IAF on 8th October 2023. 8th October is celebrated as Air Force Day every year. This year, the IAF completed 91 years.

Before independence, the Royal Indian Air Force (RIAF) ensign featured the Union Jack and RIAF roundel. After independence, these were replaced by the Indian flag and IAF tricolour roundel, respectively.

Why was the new ensign created?

The newly released IAF ensign was made to better reflect the values of the IAF. The Air Force Crest was placed in the upper right corner. The IAF Crest features the national symbol, the Ashoka lion, with the words "Satyameva Jayate" in Devanagari beneath it.

There's also a Himalayan eagle with its wings out under the lion, showing the IAF's fighting spirit. Around the bird is a light blue circle with the words “Bharatiya Vayu Sena.” written. The IAF motto "नभः स्पृशं दीप्तम्" is written in Devanagari beneath the Himalayan eagle. This means "Touching the Sky with Glory."

What was so special about this year’s Air Force Day celebrations?

The British Empire founded the IAF on 8th October 1932. That’s why this day is celebrated as Air Force Day. On this day, a parade is held to honour the IAF's beginning.

This is the first Air Force Day parade led by a female officer, Gp Capt Shaliza Dhami. She's also the first woman in the IAF to lead a combat unit. The parade had an all-women contingent of recruits from the Agniveer Vayu ladies group for the first time. The parade also included IAF Garud Commandos for the first time.

During the parade, there were exciting skydiving stunts that amazed the audience. An air display (which included various fighter and transport aircraft) was also held, which was cool to watch.