The IAF heritage centre will offer visitors the opportunity to experience cockpit exposure, use flight simulators, and also includes a souvenir shop and theme-based café.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh inaugurated the Indian Air Force Heritage Centre stating that it is a tribute to the bravery and dedication of all who served in the IAF and a reminder of their valuable contributions in protecting the nation, the first of its kind in the country, at the Government Press Building in Sector 18, Chandigarh on Monday.
In a tweet, Singh wrote about the inauguration of the first-of-its-kind Indian Air Force Heritage Centre, saying that it has been dedicated to the nation.
According to Indian Express, the centre, spread over 17,000 square feet and located in the Government Press Building in Sector 18, showcases the IAF's role in various wars and houses five vintage aircraft. Visitors will be able to experience cockpit exposure and use flight simulators, and a souvenir shop and theme-based café are also available.
The centre also features the first IAF-made patent aircraft, the Air Force 'Kanpur-1 Vintage Prototype Aircraft', designed and built by the late Air Vice Marshal Harjinder Singh in 1958 at Base Repair Depot Kanpur. The inauguration ceremony was attended by Chandigarh Union Territory (UT) Administrator Banwarilal Purohit, Air Chief Marshal V R Chaudhari, MP Kirron Kher, and other officials.
The Defence Minister will also inaugurate and lay the foundation stones for several other projects in Chandigarh. The centre also includes a special segment dedicated to women officers in the IAF for their contribution to the service of the nation.