BENGALURU: The Indian Air Force has officially announced the successful completion of the 24th Production Test Pilots course at the Air Force Test Pilots School (AFTPS), located within the Aircraft and Systems Testing Establishment (ASTE) in Bengaluru. A total of seven officers have graduated from this prestigious program, with six hailing from the Indian Air Force (IAF) and one representing the Indian Coast Guard.
The announcement highlighted that Squadron Leader Ashish Bhardwaj was awarded the best all-round student trophy, a recognition of his exemplary performance throughout the duration of the course. These newly graduated test pilots are set to make significant contributions to Indian aerospace technology, playing vital roles in supporting the nation’s defence initiatives and the production of indigenous aircraft.
Air Marshal Vijay Kumar Garg, Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Maintenance Command of the Indian Air Force, was present at the graduation ceremony, along with dignitaries from various organizations, including the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), the Society of Experimental Test Pilots, and the Society of Flight Test Engineers. Their participation underscores the importance of collaboration between military and civilian entities in advancing aerospace capabilities.
The AFTPS has a long-standing tradition of producing highly skilled test pilots who have significantly contributed to various defence aerospace and space programs, including the ambitious Gaganyaan Mission, which aims to send Indian astronauts into space. In addition to training Indian officers, the AFTPS has also extended its educational programs to international personnel.
Since its inception, the AFTPS has conducted a total of 46 flight test courses, 23 production test pilots courses, and four courses focused on remotely piloted aircraft testing. Recognized as the fifth institution of its kind globally and the only one in India, the AFTPS continues to play a crucial role in equipping pilots with the necessary skills to enhance national security and technological advancement in aviation.
