Indian Air Force creates history, becomes the third largest air force in the world
Indian Air Force Becomes The Third Largest Air Force In The World: According to the World Directory of Modern Military Aircraft (WDMMA) report, the Indian Air Force is currently the world’s third most potent air force in 2025, second only to the US and Russia. It is a clear indication of the power of the Indian Air Force and the international standing of its combat aircraft fleet, which has now become even more powerful and efficient.
Also check: Top 10 Powerful Military Countries
As per this report, the Indian Air Force has 1,716 active aircraft, sorted into different categories like attack, logistics, special missions, and support. These aircraft are employed for combat, emergency missions, and special operations and are the backbone of the Indian Air Force. The IAF not only defends India from the enemy but also frightens the enemy in their minds. The Indian Air Force was formed on 8 October 1932.
It was re-established as Republic of India Air Force on 26 January 1950. The IAF has 1,35,000 active and 100,000 reserve personnel currently. It is headquartered at New Delhi and commanded by Air Chief Marshal Amarpreet Singh. The Indian Air Force fighter squadrons operate a range of aircraft. These are the Russian-produced Sukhoi, the French-produced Dassault Rafale, and the Hindustan Aeronautics Tejas, along with Mirage-2000, MiG-29, and MiG-21. The Indian Air Force squadrons also fly transport aircraft like the C-17 Globemaster III, C130J Super Hercules, AN-32, and C-295. The Indian Air Force also flies helicopter squadrons. It also has helicopters such as CH-47 Chinook, AH-64E Apache, HAL’s Furious, MI-17 and MI-26.