Lt Gen Dhiraj Seth, PVSM, AVSM, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Southern Command, presided over the Passing Out Parade at the Combat Army Aviation Training School (CAATS), Nashik, marking a significant milestone in the evolution of Army Aviation training. The ceremony celebrated the successful graduation of multiple prestigious aviation courses, including the Combat Army Aviators Course, the Helicopter Instructor Course, and the first-ever Combined Internal Pilot & Observer Course, setting a new benchmark in integrated crew training philosophy.
The event featured a Combat Aviation Demonstration that highlighted the seamless coordination between helicopters, Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems (RPAS), hexacopters, infantry elements and armoured platforms. The display underscored the Indian Army’s growing emphasis on multi-domain integration and the harmonised employment of manned and unmanned assets—an essential capability shaping modern and future battlefield operations.
Addressing the parade, Lt Gen Dhiraj Seth emphasised the increasingly critical role of precision engagement, advanced surveillance systems, networked battlefield awareness and manned–unmanned teaming in future warfare. He highlighted that Army Aviation will continue to remain a decisive arm, enhancing operational reach, situational awareness and tactical flexibility across diverse operational theatres.
Congratulating the newly qualified aviators, the Army Commander urged them to uphold the highest standards of professionalism and mission readiness. He encouraged the graduates to embrace rapid technological advancements, remain adaptive and ensure uncompromising adherence to safety—hallmarks of a modern combat aviator.
The ceremony reflected CAATS Nashik’s status as the premier institution shaping the next generation of Army Aviators, committed to excellence, innovation and operational mastery in support of the nation’s defence.
