General Anil Chauhan, Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) of India, paid a crucial visit to the Headquarters of the South Western Air Command (SWAC) in Jaipur as part of his ongoing review of operational preparedness across the Western Theatre. The visit comes shortly after the conclusion of Operation Sindoor, a high-stakes military engagement that underscored India’s growing prowess in integrated air defence operations amidst escalating tensions with Pakistan.
During the visit, General Chauhan was received by Air Marshal Nagesh Kapoor, Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief (AOC-in-C) of SWAC. He was briefed on the command’s strategic responsibilities in defending India’s western airspace, which spans the states of Gujarat, Rajasthan, and parts of Maharashtra. Senior officers presented detailed updates on current and emerging capabilities, with a strong focus on air defence systems and inter-service coordination. General Chauhan praised the Air Warriors for their professionalism and operational excellence, particularly during Operation Sindoor, which he described as a testament to India’s technological edge and joint military effectiveness.
Operation Sindoor, conducted in early May 2025, showcased the Indian Armed Forces’ use of the Integrated Air Command and Control System (IACCS), developed by Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL). The IACCS integrates inputs from ground-based radars, airborne surveillance assets, and communication nodes to generate a unified, real-time picture of aerial threats. The system played a decisive role during the four-day conflict with Pakistan, allowing Indian forces to carry out precision strikes while neutralizing multiple incoming threats. Reports suggest the Pakistan Air Force suffered extensive damage, including the loss of 20 percent of its infrastructure and 50 personnel, among them a senior officer.
Air Marshal Nagesh Kapoor, who assumed charge as AOC-in-C in May 2024, brings a wealth of experience to SWAC, including service as India’s Defence Attaché in Pakistan. A veteran fighter pilot, he has commanded both a frontline fighter squadron in the Central Sector and a major air base in the Western Sector. Under his leadership, SWAC has maintained peak operational readiness and has been instrumental in driving innovations in air operations and joint force integration.
General Chauhan emphasized the importance of synergy between the Indian Air Force, Army, and Navy, noting that jointness is now central to India’s military doctrine. He specifically acknowledged the use of AI-enabled technologies and indigenous systems such as Akashteer, which enhance real-time coordination between ground and air forces. The CDS’s Western Theatre visit reaffirms India’s strategic focus on strengthening national defence capabilities amid evolving regional threats and complex geopolitical dynamics.
