Indian Air Force Museum in Delhi is a way to behold the rich history of Indian aviation; here's how!

Marking the occasion of Indian Air Force Day on October 8, we are exploring the famous Indian Air Force museum in Delhi that houses the rich heritage of the Indian Air Force for the citizens of India.

The military of India is in the fourth position in the world, according to the Global Firepower Index 2022. Hence, every historical warfare story is likely to fill our hearts with pride and gratification. One such sneak peek into such stories of the Air Force is possible through the Indian Air Force Museum in Delhi, which narrates uncountable tales of power and that of brave personalities who sacrificed their lives to serve the nation.

Located in Palam Air Force Station, the museum is a collaboration between the Indian Military Aviation and the Indian Air Force. Entering the museum is no less than witnessing a place exemplifying a rich display of planes that have played a significant part in protecting the country from all potential air threats.

The museum, which is established next to the technical area gate of Palam Air Force Station, has three sections for people who love to explore the world of Indian aviation. The first section of the museum deals with the history of the Indian Air Force, for which the museum displays various photographs. It includes photographs of late officers of the Indian Air Force who fought bravely in World War 1. Moreover, this section also shows aircraft models.

Moving ahead will take you to the second section of the museum, which includes photographs of Indian officers who remained an essential part of World War II. But the section does not conclude here. It also contains arms that were once seized from Pakistan back in 1966 and 1971. Along with this, a glance at ceremonial swords and old uniforms of the 1930s of Air Force officers and Hawai Sepoys is also possible here.

The next section showcases some other important artefacts, the ownership of which goes back to modern aviation history. These include photographs, Indo-Soviet Joint Manned Spaceship-Soyuz T-11 model, and mementoes. For the explorers keen on checking the rich history of the events and aircraft, the section is a blessing to look forward to!

Not only this, but the museum also houses a gallery, including a hanger that contains around 15 different types of military aircraft that have been kept on display. Some of these aircraft that have been serving as significant pillars of the Indian Air Force are Westland Lysander, Vickers Spitfire, the British Vampire, the French Toofani, and the Japanese Kamikaze Glider. The hanger also features anti-aircraft guns, vehicles, and ordnance.

Another prominent museum section is the 'Roll of Honour' wall. It is famous for highlighting the names of officers who gallantly let go of their lives in fights like 1947's Kashmir Operations, the India-Pakistan conflicts in 1965 and 1971, and 1962's Chinese attacks. In addition, the guests at the museum get to see the old uniforms of the Indian Air Force that the officers wore with pride!

One can also come across the souvenir collection shop from where the aircraft memoirs like jerseys, postal covers, key chains, bottle cap removers, and many more can be purchased. While tourists need to bring one of their government ID cards for entry, they are not allowed to take it inside their carry bags.

Since the inception of the Indian Air Force on October 8, 1932, there have been various events, movements, and wars, and the IAF has never let the country down in difficult times. And this museum well upholds glimpses of the bygone era!

Also Read: 5 lesser-known things about the Kargil War!

For more such stories follow Local Samosa on Facebook,  Instagram,  Twitter, and Telegram.