Bangalore provides the foundation, says Air Marshal Kukreja

Q: Explain the importance of Bangalore and the various Air Force establishments in the City to the Indian Air Force.

A

: With Hindustan Aeronautics Limited’s monopoly post independence, it was only natural that the IAF set up its training and related establishments here.

And with the Training Command headquartered here, Bangalore provides the foundation on which the IAF builds its operational capabilities.

Q: What are the challenges for the Training Command?

A: Given the kind of changing threat perceptions and the dynamic environment, the challenges are directly proportionate to the challenges the Indian Air Force faces.

Q: How do you see the roadmap of Training Command, change in the coming days?

A: As the IAF moves forward to meet the changing challenges in a threat-filled environment we have to equip ourselves with the best techniques to meet the requirements.

In that direction we are enhancing our infrastructure as part of the modernisation plan. We will soon see an increased intake of modern training aides and international teaching standards will be employed.

You will also see a more interactive method of teaching/ training as the we get personnel from varied stratas of the society.

Q: Does the IAF, on the lines of some arms of the Army train personnel from friendly countries? If yes, please provide basic details.

A: Yes, we do train personnel from friendly nations, mainly from Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Myanmar, Nepal and some African nations, including Nigeria.

Annually, we train roughly about 40-50 airmen and 8-10 engineers, but the numbers vary.