Air Marshal B Manikantan, Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Central Air Command, visited Air Force Station Gorakhpur from May 1 to May 2, 2026, to review operational preparedness and ongoing developments at the station.
On arrival, the Air Marshal was accorded a ceremonial Guard of Honour. During the visit, he assessed key aspects of operational readiness and infrastructure upgrades, reflecting the Indian Air Force’s focus on maintaining high combat capability and modernisation.
A major highlight of the visit was the inauguration of a new Jaguar simulator complex, which will significantly enhance pilot training by providing realistic mission scenarios in a controlled environment. The Air Marshal also undertook a familiarisation sortie on the simulator, gaining firsthand insight into its advanced capabilities.
In addition, he inaugurated the renovated station gymnasium, aimed at improving physical training facilities and overall well-being of personnel.
Interacting with air warriors, Air Marshal Manikantan commended them for their professionalism, dedication, and commitment to maintaining robust operational readiness. The visit underscored the Central Air Command’s emphasis on strengthening both technological capabilities and human resource development within the Indian Air Force.
