This guest, who came in 1969, rides the Air Chief Marshal on special occasions; Read the full story of ‘IAF 1’

On the occasion of Air Force Day, a scene was seen at Hindon Air Base. Air Chief Marshal Amar Preet Singh made a grand entry in a classic 1960s Ford Galaxie V8. This cream white colored car was with left-hand steering. On which ‘IAF 1’ plate is installed. This car is not just a vehicle, but a symbol of the legacy of the Indian Air Force. This car, which joined service on July 30, 1969, was the staff car of many Air Chiefs for more than two decades.

Equipped with a powerful 6.4 liter V8 engine, this classic car is now safe in the Palam Air Force Museum and comes out only on special occasions. For Air Chief Marshal Amar Preet Singh, this was his last Air Force Day celebration. He warmly met the serving soldiers, veterans and civilians.

How special is the Ford Galaxie V8?

This Ford vehicle first joined the Indian Air Force on 30 July 1969. Air Chief Marshal P.C. Lal used it as a staff car. This car remained with him even during the 1971 war. After this many Air Chiefs used it till 1992. On 10 June 1993, Air Chief Marshal N.C. Suri handed it over to Palam Museum.

technical characteristics

The Ford Galaxy was a flagship model produced from 1959 to 1974. It has a 6.4 liter V8 engine, which gives a power of about 315 HP. The 3-speed automatic transmission and 119-inch long wheelbase make it gorgeous. Features like wide chrome grille, quad headlamps, air conditioning, AM radio and power rear window reflect the luxury of that era. This is a left-hand drive model.

comes out only on special occasions

At present this car is not in daily use. This legacy, preserved in the Palam Museum, comes on the road only on special events like Air Force Day. Its soft rumble and classic looks catch everyone’s attention.