Op Sindoor demonstrated IAF’s ability to deliver precise strikes, says IAF Chief AP Singh

During ‘Operation Sindoor’, the Indian Air Force (IAF) demonstrated its capability to deliver precise and decisive blows to the enemy, IAF Chief Air Chief Marshal AP Singh said on Saturday.

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He was addressing the Combined Graduation Parade (CGP) at the Air Force Academy (AFA), Dundigal, Hyderabad, on Saturday. A total of 254 flight cadets graduated on Saturday.

The Air Chief Marshal said the IAF had been and would always remain the first responder. “In the future, two things are certain: fast-evolving character of warfare and the increased relevance of the aerospace power,” he added.

“The IAF must remain ready and prepared. The battlefield is going to become more and more complex and you will need to continuously train and retrain to succeed in future,” said the IAF chief.

He further highlighted that the Indian Air Force was evolving into an aerospace force. Many of you cadets would lead the nation’s foray into space, he said.

Operation Sindoor has showcased exceptional coordination, synergy and integration within the armed forces. You must keep furthering the spirit of jointness as you grow in service, the IAF Chief said.

At the passing-out ceremony, nine officers from the Navy, seven officers from the Indian Coast Guard and one trainee from Vietnam, were also awarded ‘Wings’ on successful completion of flying training.

The event also included thrilling displays by the Akash Ganga team, the Air Warrior Drill Team and synchronised 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.

Flying Officer Rohan Krishnamurti from the Flying branch was awarded the President’s Plaque and the Chief of the Air Staff Sword of Honour for standing first in the overall order of merit in the Pilots’ course. Flying Officer Nishtha Vaid was awarded the President’s Plaque for being first in the overall order of merit in the ground duty branches.

The parade culminated with the newly commissioned officers marching out in two columns to the resonant notes of martial marching tunes.