The Indian Air Force Academy at Dundigal is all set to host the Combined Graduation Parade (CGP) for the 215th course, marking the successful completion of pre-commissioning training for flight cadets from the Indian Air Force (IAF) as well as officers from the Indian Navy, Indian Coast Guard, and one officer from a friendly foreign country.
General Upendra Dwivedi, Chief of the Army Staff (COAS), will review the ceremonial parade, a symbol of inter-service camaraderie and excellence in military training. As the Reviewing Officer, General Dwivedi will confer the prestigious ‘President’s Commission’ on the graduating cadets, officially inducting them as officers in their respective services.
Cadets from the flying branch who have excelled in training will be awarded ‘Wings,’ signifying their readiness for active flying duties. The flight cadet standing first in the order of merit in the flying branch will receive the ‘President’s Plaque’ and the ‘Chief of the Air Staff Sword of Honour’ and will have the distinction of commanding the parade. Similarly, the top cadet from the ground duty branches will also be honoured with the ‘President’s Plaque.’
The event will include a spectacular lineup of performances that highlight the operational capabilities of the IAF. The CGP will begin with awe-inspiring displays by the Akash Ganga skydiving team and the Air Warrior Drill Team (AWDT). Fly-pasts and aerial displays by the Pilatus PC-7 Mk-II, Hawk, Kiran, and Chetak helicopters will enthrall the audience. Showstoppers will include breathtaking aerobatics by the Surya Kiran Aerobatic Team (SKAT) and high-speed manoeuvres by the SU-30 MKI.
This graduation parade not only celebrates the achievements of the newly commissioned officers but also underscores the IAF’s commitment to operational excellence, discipline, and inter-service cooperation.