Indian Air Force (IAF) Chief Air Chief Marshal A P Singh on Wednesday reaffirmed the force’s unwavering readiness to counter any hostile action against the country, declaring that the IAF is fully prepared to deliver a decisive response to any “misadventure” attempted by enemy nations. Speaking in Dibrugarh during an aerial display organised as part of Vijay Diwas celebrations, Singh underscored the IAF’s growing capabilities and strategic preparedness, while also reflecting on the force’s historic role in the 1971 Indo-Pak war.

Addressing reporters, the Air Chief Marshal made it clear that the IAF’s operational readiness has evolved in line with modern threats and lessons from past conflicts. “We are totally prepared to give them a bloody nose if they go for any kind of misadventure,” he said, emphasizing that the force is capable of meeting even the most complex security challenges. Singh further asserted that India — and the IAF in particular — is equipped and ready to handle a “two-front” war if the need arises, a reference to simultaneous threats from Pakistan and China.

Singh’s comments came during a grand aerial display marking Vijay Diwas, celebrated annually to commemorate India’s decisive victory over Pakistan in the 1971 war, which led to the creation of Bangladesh. The event, held at Air Force Station Mohanbari in Dibrugarh and organised by the Eastern Air Command, showcased the formidable modern fleet and joint operational capabilities of the Indian Air Force.

Reflecting on the legacy of the 1971 war, Singh spoke with pride about the IAF’s critical role in achieving victory. “The way the Indian Air Force stood rock solid and delivered what was expected — whether it was during the day operations in November, the final blows, or the attack on the Governor’s House in Bangladesh — it decisively brought the war to an end,” he said. He added that the war demonstrated how swift, coordinated action between the Army, Navy, and Air Force shaped the outcome of the 13-day conflict.

Singh highlighted the importance of jointmanship — the seamless cooperation among the three services — noting that several key operations such as river crossings and airborne assaults relied on precise coordination. “The operation was not only a big success for the IAF, but also a major triumph for jointmanship,” he said. “The kind of operations planned, like river crossings or air drops, wouldn’t have been possible without the close coordination between the Army and the Air Force.” The experience, he said, left a lasting lesson that joint operations significantly enhance the effectiveness of military campaigns.

He also noted that the Indian armed forces today continue to build on those lessons through modern training and technology upgrades. “I am happy to say that the Indian Air Force has continued to train and equip itself based on those lessons,” he said, indicating the IAF’s sustained focus on modernization, improved stealth, and strategic planning.

Earlier in the day, the Vijay Diwas celebrations in Dibrugarh featured a captivating aerial demonstration that drew large crowds, including retired personnel, civil dignitaries, school children, and families. The display showcased some of the most potent aircraft in the IAF’s arsenal, including the Sukhoi Su-30 fighter jets, Dornier Do-228 surveillance aircraft, Antonov An-32 transport planes, and Chinook and Mi-17 helicopters. Officials said the event also included an exhibition and the release of a special film commemorating the 1971 war victory.

The Air Force’s presentation served not only as a tribute to the heroes of 1971 but also as a public display of India’s current air power, technological strides, and preparedness in the face of evolving geopolitical challenges.

With the IAF chief’s strong message of readiness and determination, the Vijay Diwas event reinforced the country’s confidence in its military capabilities and its commitment to defending national sovereignty under any circumstances.