87th Indian Air Force Day: During the flypast at the Hindon Air Base in Ghaziabad, Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman and other IAF jawans who participated in the Balakot strike flew in 'Avenger' formation

Number nine squadron whose Mirage 2000 fighter aircraft carried out the Balakot strikes will also be awarded.

During the press conference, Air Chief Marshal RKS Bhadauria emphasised on important milestones achieved by the Indian Air Force in the last one year, including Balakot air strike. IAF chief added that they are ready for any challenge or war at short notice. Watch the video here.

Balakot airstrike promotional video: The video talks about the Indian Air Force's heroic acts during the Balakot strikes and aerial engagements with Pakistani Air Force after the Indian airstrikes on the Pakistani soil

Talking about the IAF shooting down its own Mi-17 helicopter in Budgam on the morning of February 27, he said it was a \"big mistake on our part\".

Government's immediate priority is to fast-track infantry modernisation, including procuring 2,600 infantry combat vehicles and 1,700 future ready combat vehicles for the Indian Army.