Bengaluru, September 6, 2026 — The Air Force Technical College (AFTC) in Bengaluru conducted the passing-out parade of the 107th Aeronautical Engineering Course on Saturday, marking the successful completion of 62 weeks of rigorous professional training. A total of 118 engineering officers, including five officers from friendly foreign countries, graduated and are now ready to assume technical appointments in the Indian Air Force and partner air forces.
Air Marshal Yalla Umesh, Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Maintenance Command, was the chief guest and reviewing officer. On arrival he was received by Air Commodore V.N. Rao, Commandant of AFTC. The parade was attended by dignitaries from the three services, serving air warriors, veterans and parents of the graduating officers.
The ceremonial parade featured a precision display by the Air Warrior Drill Team. A flypast by Dornier aircraft and Mi-17 helicopters added to the spectacle. The programme concluded with motorcycle stunts by the Tornadoes, the motorcycle display team of the Army Service Corps.
Flying Officer Raghvendra Pratap Singh was awarded the Sword of Honour for standing first in the overall order of merit. Flying Officer Vaibhav Mishra received the President’s Plaque for being adjudged the best officer in professional subjects and general service training. The Chief of the Air Staff Medals for topping the Electronics and Mechanical streams were awarded to Flying Officer Rohan Veer Singh Rawat and Flying Officer Keshika K, respectively. Trophies and medallions were also presented to other officers who excelled during the course.
Addressing the gathering, Air Marshal Umesh congratulated the newly commissioned officers on the successful completion of their training. He underlined the importance of professionalism, integrity and service in their future assignments and urged them to strive for excellence so that they contribute meaningfully to the operational readiness and traditions of the Indian Air Force.
The 107th Aeronautical Engineering Course represents a further strengthening of the Indian Air Force’s technical cadre. Engineering officers trained at AFTC are responsible for the maintenance, reliability and operational availability of aircraft, weapons and associated systems. The inclusion of officers from friendly foreign countries also reflects India’s growing role as a centre for aerospace professional training.
