Chandigarh to get India’s First Air Force heritage Centre

The centre proudly showcases five vintage aircraft and offers visitors an immersive experience with cockpit exposure and flight simulators. As the IAF's premier heritage centre, it portrays the pivotal role of the IAF in various wars, along with its cutting-edge modern technologies such as augmented reality, virtual reality, holograms, simulators, and electro-mechanical enclosures.

Notably, the centre houses the first IAF-made patented aircraft, Air Force Kanpur 1, crafted by Air Vice Marshal Harjinder Singh in 1958, making it a unique attraction. Sources from the Chandigarh administration revealed that a date for the inauguration has been sought from Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, with an expected visit in the last week of April. The centre also features the Indian Air Force tableau that was displayed at Kartavya Marg on Republic Day, showcasing scale models of the Tejas fighter aircraft, Netra aircraft, Prachand helicopter, Airbus C 295, Integrated Air Command and Control System work station, and a global satellite.

To enhance the visitor experience, the centre has set up a souvenir shop displaying IAF's memorabilia and scale models, as well as a theme-based cafe for the public. With a sprawling area of around 17,000 square feet, the centre effectively highlights the IAF's role in various wars. Knowledgeable guides are available to assist visitors with Air Flight Simulators and cockpit exposure. Additionally, all relevant tests, including fire-fighting, electrical, and air conditioning, have been successfully conducted, as confirmed by Group Captain P. S. Lamba, the project director of the IAF Heritage Centre.

Furthermore, the centre features a striking wall adorned with 58 vintage and retired aircraft models, providing a visual treat for visitors. Plans are underway to gradually update the centre with information on various rescue operations undertaken by the IAF across the country and worldwide. The centre will also showcase the initiatives undertaken by the Air Force Family Welfare Association for the well-being of the families of air warriors at the station, regional, and central levels through projectors, as stated by the senior officer.

In June 2022, a memorandum of understanding was signed between the Chandigarh administration and the Indian Air Force for the establishment of the heritage centre, in the presence of Banwarilal Purohit, the governor of Punjab and administrator of Chandigarh. It was announced that the centre will feature simulators, decommissioned aircraft, aero engines, and other IAF artifacts, while also utilising virtual reality and artificial intelligence to enhance the experience for visitors. The Indian Air Force heritage centre in Chandigarh stands as a remarkable testament to the rich history and technological advancements of the IAF.