Operation Sindoor showed Indian Air Force can hit the enemy hard and fast: IAF chief AP Singh

Indian Air Force Chief Air Chief Marshal A.P. Singh observed that Operation Sindoor is a shining testament to the unparalleled prowess of the IAF.

Addressing the Combined Graduation Parade (CGP) at the Air Force Academy in  Dundigal of Telangana, he said the operation demonstrated IAF's capability to deliver swift, precise and decisive blows to the enemy.

He urged the newly commissioned officers to keep furthering the spirit of jointness as they grow in service.

The IAF chief said the graduating officers, as the future of the IAF, must understand that the Air Force has been and will always remain the first responder. "It is our collective responsibility to live up to the trust placed in the Indian Air Force by every citizen of India, and we must be ready and prepared for this."

Observing that the battlefield is going to be more and more complex, he said the young officers would need to continuously "train and retrain" to succeed in future conflicts.

With the Indian Air Force fast evolving into an aerospace force, many young officers will lead the nation's foray into space, he said. These challenges will require them to be totally committed, focused, innovative, and passionate about their job, the IAF chief added.

“The battlespace of the future will be increasingly complex. With the IAF transforming into a true aerospace force, many of you will be at the forefront of India’s ventures into space. These challenges will demand total commitment, relentless focus, innovation, and a deep passion for your calling. The uniform you wear is a symbol of national pride — wear it with honour, lead with courage, and always uphold the core values of the Indian Air Force.” 

Singh also exhorted the graduating officers to focus on physical and mental fitness and personality development through a healthy lifestyle.

The event commemorated the successful completion of the pre-commissioning training of flight cadets across various branches of the Indian Air Force.

During the ceremony, the IAF Chief conferred the President's Commission' to the graduating trainees.

Nine officers from the Indian Navy, seven officers from the Indian Coast Guard, and one trainee from a friendly foreign country, were also awarded 'Wings' on successful completion of flying training, during the event.

"The event also included thrilling displays by the Akash Gangateam, the Air Warrior Drill Team, and synchronized aerobatics by the Suryakiran aerobatic team. The graduation parade was interspersed with well-coordinated and synchronized fly-pasts by trainer aircraft that included the Pilatus PC-7 MklI, Hawk, Kiran Mk-1 and Chetak," the defence ministry stated in a release.

Defence