Air Chief Marshal AP Singh underscores IAF’s commitment to indigenous defence capabilities at Bengaluru event
Chief of Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal AP Singh, reaffirmed the Indian Air Force’s commitment to a self-reliant defence ecosystem, emphasizing that precision and excellence are vital in realizing the vision of a strong, capable, and self-sufficient India.
Speaking at the valedictory ceremony of the 47th flight test course of the IAF’s Test Pilot School, Singh spotlighted key indigenous projects such as the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) and LCA Mk-II as critical pillars in India’s defence advancement, reported timesofindia.indiatimes.com.
The IAF chief praised the role of test pilots and engineers in pushing India’s aviation innovation, calling test flying a domain requiring the highest standards of competence and integrity
Held at the Aircraft and Systems Testing Establishment (ASTE) in Bengaluru, the graduation ceremony marked the completion of a prestigious programme that trains officers in the complex science of flight testing and aerial systems evaluation. These officers will be central to shaping the next generation of Indian defence aviation technology.
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“Test flying is a specialist domain demanding professional excellence, integrity, and unwavering commitment to service,” Singh said.
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He urged the graduating officers to uphold the values of precision and excellence and contribute to making India atmanirbhar (self-reliant) in defence.
The event also recognised exceptional performers. Squadron Leader S Bhardwaj was awarded the Suranjan Das Trophy for the best all-round student test pilot, while Squadron Leader Ajay Tripathi received the Chief of the Air Staff Trophy for excellence in flight evaluation.
In the flight test engineer category, Squadron Leader Subhrajyoti Paul earned the Maharaja Hanumanth Singh Sword for best overall performance. Wing Commander Ashwini Singh won the Dunlop Trophy for flight evaluation, and Major Kaustubh Kunte was honoured with the Kapil Bhargava Trophy for academic excellence in ground subjects.
The IAF’s continued focus on indigenisation through training and technology is crucial to India’s journey towards becoming a global aerospace leader, Singh concluded.
