In a historic milestone for the Indian Air Force (IAF), the first batch of officers from the newly created Weapon Systems Branch was commissioned during the Combined Graduation Parade held at the Air Force Academy (AFA), Dundigal, near Hyderabad on Saturday.
This batch included 204 cadets, comprising 178 men and 26 women, from various flying and ground duty streams. The parade was reviewed by Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Chief Marshal AP Singh, who conferred the rank of Flying Officer upon the graduates.
A New Era in Operational Capability
The Weapon Systems Branch, announced during the Air Force Day celebrations in 2022 by the then Chief of Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal Vivek Ram Chaudhari, represents the first new operational branch in the IAF since Independence. This initiative unifies all weapon system operators under a single stream, encompassing both ground-based systems and airborne platforms.
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“This branch will man four specialised streams: surface-to-surface missiles, surface-to-air guided missiles, remotely piloted aircraft (UAVs), and weapon system operators in twin-seat and multi-crew aircraft,” Chaudhari had stated. The creation of the branch is also projected to save the IAF over ₹3,400 crore by reducing the need for extensive flying training.
Training and Specialisation
A two-stage training curriculum has been developed for the branch. Initial training is conducted at the AFA, followed by advanced training at the newly established Weapon Systems School at Begumpet, Hyderabad. The curriculum equips officers with the specialised skills required for handling modern weapon systems and integrating advanced technology into their operations.
Four Sub-Streams of the Weapon Systems Branch
- Flying: Officers in this category operate weapon systems in aircraft such as the Su-30MKI, Apache AH-64E, Mi-25/35, indigenous Prachand, and special operations aircraft like the C-130J Super Hercules.
- Remote: This sub-stream involves UAV operations, with drones being deployed for attack, surveillance, and logistical support. UAVs are sourced from international suppliers like the US and Israel and developed indigenously.
- Intelligence: Focused on interpreting imagery from space, aircraft, and UAVs, this sub-stream includes intelligence analysts, information warfare specialists, and operators of space systems.
- Space Assets: This sub-stream ensures seamless operation and management of space-based assets for surveillance, communication, and strategic purposes.
Significance of the Branch
The creation of the Weapon Systems Branch aligns with the IAF’s vision of modernising its operational capabilities and addressing the challenges of evolving warfare. With specialisations ranging from missile operations to intelligence analysis and drone piloting, the branch is set to enhance the IAF’s ability to carry out precision strikes, advanced surveillance, and integrated operations.
Looking Ahead
The commissioning of the first batch of the Weapon Systems Branch marks a turning point for the IAF, bridging the gap between modern warfare demands and the force’s existing capabilities. With the integration of cutting-edge technology and highly trained personnel, the IAF is poised to maintain its strategic edge in the region.
This historic development is not just a leap forward for the Indian Air Force but also a step toward redefining India’s aerospace power and operational readiness in the global arena.
