‘Operation Sindoor’ was a testament of IAF’s combat capability and operational synergy, says IAF chief A.P. Singh

Indian Air Force (IAF) academy flight cadets celebrate after their Combined Graduation Parade at the Air Force Academy in Dundigal, on the outskirts of Hyderabad on June 14, 2025.
| Photo Credit: G. Ramakrishna

The Indian Air Force (IAF) demonstrated its precision, power and preparedness during Operation Sindoor, which stood out as a testament to the force’s combat capability and operational synergy, said Air Chief Marshal AP Singh, Chief of the Air Staff, while addressing the graduating cadets at the Combined Graduation Parade (CGP) held at the Air Force Academy, Dundigal, on Saturday (June 14, 2025).

“Operation Sindoor showcased the unfathomable prowess of the Indian Air Force. We have demonstrated our ability to deliver swift, precise, and decisive blows to the enemy. It reflected the exceptional coordination, integration, and jointmanship within our armed forces,” he said, highlighting the growing complexity of modern warfare and the IAF’s evolving role as the first responder.

The Chief of Air Staff reviewed the parade and conferred the President’s Commission on 254 flight cadets, including 36 women from the flying and ground duty branches of the IAF, formally inducting them into service. The event also marked the successful completion of flying training by nine Indian Navy officers, seven Indian Coast Guard officers, and one officer from the Vietnam People’s Air Force, who were awarded their ‘Wings’.

Urging the young officers to remain physically and mentally fit, Air Chief Marshal Singh said, “You must be totally committed, focused, innovative and passionate. Your strength will not just lie in individual excellence but in the collective spirit of your team. No branch operates in isolation, each one of us plays a vital role in safeguarding the sovereignty and integrity of our nation.”

Flying Officer Rohan Krishnamurthy, from the flying branch, was awarded the Chief of the Air Staff Sword of Honour and the President’s Plaque for standing first in the overall order of merit among pilots. Flying Officer Nishtha Vaid received the President’s Plaque for topping the ground duty officers’ course.

The parade concluded with a ceremonial slow march set to Rabindranath Tagore’s Anandaloke, followed by a dazzling aerial display. The Surya Kiran Aerobatic Team captivated the audience with their synchronised formations and aerobatic finesse, drawing loud applause from families, dignitaries and fellow officers in attendance.