The Indian Air Force Academy (AFA) in Dundigal, Hyderabad, is abuzz with anticipation as it prepares to host the grand Combined Graduation Parade (CGP) of the 213 Officers’ Course on June 15, 2024. This ceremonious event, steeped in tradition and military splendor, will commemorate the successful completion of pre-commissioning training for flight cadets of both the Flying and Ground Duty branches of the Indian Air Force (IAF).
Air Chief Marshal VR Chaudhari, the distinguished Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), is slated to grace the occasion as the Reviewing Officer (RO) of the parade, adding to the significance of the event. One of the highlights of the ceremony will be the conferral of the prestigious President’s Commission upon the graduating trainees by the RO. As part of this solemn ritual, ‘Wings’ will be presented to the Flight Cadets, symbolizing their transition into commissioned officers. This honor extends not only to the officers of the Indian Air Force but also to their counterparts from the Indian Navy, Indian Coast Guard, and officers from friendly foreign nations who have successfully completed their flying training at the esteemed academy.
“The Combined Graduation Parade is the culmination of rigorous training and dedication, marking a pivotal milestone in the careers of our military aviators,” remarked a senior official from the Air Force Academy.
Acknowledging excellence in training, the Flight Cadet from the Flying Branch who secures the top position in the order-of-merit will be bestowed with the Chief of the Air Staff ‘Sword of Honour’ and the President’s Plaque, a testament to their outstanding performance throughout the training period. Additionally, this Flight Cadet will have the esteemed privilege of commanding the parade, a moment of great pride and honor.
Further underscoring the commitment to excellence, the trainee ranking first in the overall order-of-merit among the ground duty branches will also be presented with the President’s Plaque, recognizing their exceptional dedication and proficiency.
The CGP promises to be a visual spectacle with an enthralling flypast featuring formations of Pilatus PC-7 Mk-II, Dornier, Hawk, Kiran, and Chetak aircraft. Aerobatic displays by the Pilatus PC-7 Mk-II, SU-30 MKI, Surya Kiran Aerobatic Team (SKAT), and the Sarang Helicopter Display Team will add an exhilarating touch to the event, captivating spectators and participants alike.
Established as the premier training institution of the Indian Air Force, the Air Force Academy holds a special place in the hearts of aviation enthusiasts and military personnel alike. Since its inception on October 11, 1967, when the foundation stone was laid by the then President of India, Dr. Zakir Hussain, the academy has been nurturing the finest pilots, ground duty officers, and technical personnel for the Indian Air Force.
“The training ethos at the Air Force Academy goes beyond honing individual skills; it fosters a spirit of camaraderie and mutual respect among officers from diverse branches, laying the groundwork for cohesive teamwork and operational readiness,” remarked a senior faculty member of the academy.
As the countdown to the Combined Graduation Parade begins, the Air Force Academy stands poised to celebrate the culmination of the journey of these exceptional trainees, heralding their entry into the illustrious fraternity of the Indian Air Force officers.
About Air Force Academy
The Air Force Academy in Hyderabad is a prestigious institution that plays a crucial role in shaping the future of the Indian Air Force (IAF). The Academy formally came into being when the then President of India Dr Zakir Hussain, laid its foundation stone on 11 October 1967. The training at this academy is designed to foster the spirit of camaraderie and promote healthy interaction among officers of every branch
Established in 1969, the academy is located at Dundigal, about 25 km from the twin cities of Hyderabad and Secunderabad. It serves as a training ground for cadets from various branches of the IAF, including flying, technical, and ground duty branches, as well as officers from the Indian Navy and the Indian Coast Guard. The academy’s motto, “Shram Se Sidhi” (Achievement Through Diligence), encapsulates its ethos of instilling discipline, honor, and a commitment to excellence in its cadets. With a sprawling campus of over 7,000 acres, the academy provides a rigorous training program that includes character building, military and academic subjects, physical exercise, and adventure activities.
