“Flying in the 1971 Indo-Pak war was akin to a routine flying exercise,” recalls Air Marshal G S Chaudhry, Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief (AOC-in-C) of the Training Command, Indian Air Force. The command, headquartered at Bangalore, oversees seven IAF bases in Bangalore, along with others in South India.

Talking to Deccan Herald at the impressive headquarters in the sprawling 400 acres of well-maintained greenery and infrastructure, the AOC-in-C radiated pride and pleasure on the occasion of the Platinum Jubilee of the IAF on October 8, this year.

 “The efforts of the air warriors  have contributed to make the air force what it is today. The IAF has always scored in duty and upheld public faith. It would continue to take the nation to greater heights. National security is absolutely safe,” assured the sainik school alumnus, who was commissioned as a fighter pilot in 1968.
Marshal Chaudhry said that the IAF was gradually becoming a major air space power. It is already utilising its assets for reconnaissance and communication skills.

 “Technology has come a long way,” he said, “from yesteryears, when communication was limited to line of sight.” He described the IAF’s flexibility as its major strength. This could be exercised only with resources. He added, “With AWACs (Airborne Warning and Control Systems) coming in soon, all aircraft would have the capability to dominate the air and continue operations.”

The former Gnat pilot said the  (British) Hawk would be inducted in Air Force Station, Bidar, from next month.