The Indian Air Force (IAF) is the air arm of the Indian Armed Forces. Its primary mission is to secure Indian airspace and to conduct aerial warfare during armed conflict. It was established on 8th October 1932. The President of India is the Supreme Commander of all Indian armed forces and by virtue of that fact is the National Commander-in-chief of the Air Force. The Chief of the Air Staff with the rank of Air chief marshal is the Commander.Â
A few ways to become a Fighter Pilot in Indian Air Force is as follows:
1. Combined Defense Services (CDS)
The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) conducts the Combined Defense Services Examination (CDSE) twice a year for recruitment into the Indian Military Academy, Officers Training Academy, Indian Naval Academy and Indian Air Force Academy.
Graduates (three-year course) in any discipline from a recognised university (with physics and mathematics at 10+2 level)/ BE/ B Tech (four-year course) is required. No percentage Bar is required for CDSE exam. Only men at the age of 20-24 can appear for the exam.
2. Air force Common Admission Test (AFCAT)
Both male and female can give AFCAT Exam for Short Service Commission (SSC) in flying branch, it is for 14 years with no extension. The age limit should be between 20 to 24 years.
This exam is conducted twice a year (February and September) and the candidate must be Graduates (three-year course)/ BE/B Tech (four-year course) in any discipline from a recognised university with minimum 60% marks or equivalent.
3. National Defence Academy (NDA)
NDA is conducted twice a year by UPSC. The candidates who qualify the examination will have to undergo a three years training at NDA followed by flying training at Air Force Training establishments. After the completion of training, candidates get ‘Permanent Commission ‘.
Candidates must have completed their 10th or 12th with Physics and Mathematics.
4. NCC Special Entry
Candidates having Air Wing Senior Division ‘C’ Certificate holder is eligible for National Cadet Corps (NCC) Special Entry. Permanent Commission is offered for men while Short Service Commission is for men and women.
The joining will be done through the Directorate General National Cadet Corps or through your respective NCC Air Squadrons. Graduates (three year course)/ BE/B Tech (four-year course) in any discipline from a recognized university with minimum 60% marks or equivalent is required.
I Hope the above sources were helpful and gave you more knowledge about these exams. I Hope you prepare well for the exams and wish you all the very best.
