Asserting that recruits to the armed forces must be mentally prepared for the evolving nature of modern conflict, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Saturday said major powers no longer hold an edge on the battlefield as even smaller forces can inflict significant damage using specialised tactics. Addressing the Combined Graduation Parade (CGP) at the Air Force Academy at Dundigal, near, Singh also said emerging technologies have altered the very definition of warfare.
"Earlier, it seemed that the big powers had a decisive edge on the battlefield. But now, comparatively, even small powers can cause heavy losses with their small but dangerous weapons and new tactics. My purpose in telling you all this is that you should be mentally ready for any form of warfare," he said.
"In contrast to the visibility of soldiers and equipment earlier, many systems such as radars, satellites, drones, sensors and robotics are deployed in modern warfare. Such scenarios are being witnessed now in which traffic systems and CCTVs of adversaries are being controlled," he said.
According to him, the definition of warfare has changed to a great extent. The newly commissioned officers should understand modern warfare and strategies and adapt, adopt, and, if necessary, amend them. Underscoring the importance of smart work along with hard work, he said smart nations are carving out a place for themselves in the modern technology landscape.
Noting that IAF serves as a source of inspiration for crores of Indians, he cited the example of astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla and exhorted the officers to uphold the rich legacy of the Force.
Congratulating the women officers commissioned by the Indian Air Force, he said their growing numbers make the IAF even more powerful, balanced, and robust, which demonstrates the strength of the inclusive force.
He also wished success to the graduating Vietnamese cadets in their future endeavours, exuding confidence that their training will bolster the friendship between the two countries.
He highlighted the Indian Air Force's success in high-stakes rescue missions and its role in ensuring the safety of foreign citizens during crises.
"That way, during the humanitarian missions, the Indian Air Force has enhanced the Indian culture and ethos," he added.
A total of 231 Flight Cadets (194 men and 37 women), including the first batch of women from the National Defence Academy, were commissioned as officers in the IAF following their graduation from the Air Force Academy (AFA).
The Defence Minister, who reviewed the Combined Graduation Parade of 217 Course, awarded the 'President's Commission' to the graduating cadets, marking the culmination of the pre-commissioning training of the cadets for the Flying and Ground Duty branches of IAF.
Nine officers from the Indian Navy, three from the Indian Coast Guard, and two from the Socialist Republic of Vietnam were awarded 'Wings' on the occasion. ‘Brevets' were given to three officers upon the completion of their navigation training.
Singh was presented with a General Salute by the parade, followed by an impressive march past. The parade was interspersed with a synchronised flypast led by Chief of the Air Staff Air Chief Marshal AP Singh.
The flypast showcased four types of trainer aircraft — Pilatus PC-7 Mk II, Hawk, Kiran, and Chetak aircraft. In recognition of their exceptional performance across various training disciplines, the defence minister gave away awards to the graduating officers. Flying Officer Ashish Kumar Yadav was awarded the coveted 'President's Plaque' and the 'Nawanagar Sword of Honour’ for standing first in the overall order of merit in the Pilot Course.
Flying Officer Ekta Gupta was awarded the 'President's Plaque' for standing first in the overall order of merit in the navigation stream. Flying Officer Divyanshi Singh was awarded the 'President's Plaque' for standing first in the overall order of merit in the Ground Duty branches.
The event also included a display by the Akash Ganga and 'Shakti', the Woman Air Warrior Drill Team, which was well appreciated by the audience. A captivating aerobatics display by Su-30 MKI, Sarang helicopter display team, and Suryakiran Aerobatic Team formed part of the grand finale of the parade.
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