In a moment of immense pride and historical significance, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), General Upendra Dwivedi, and the Chief of Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal AP Singh, took to the skies together today in the indigenous Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas. This unprecedented flight not only marks a personal milestone for the two Chiefs, who are coursemates, but also underscores the growing synergy and integration between the Indian Army and the Indian Air Force (IAF).
The flight is a powerful demonstration of India’s advancing defence capabilities, particularly in the realm of self-reliance. The Tejas, developed entirely within India, is a shining example of the nation’s commitment to Aatmanirbharta (self-reliance) in defence. The successful operation of this homegrown aircraft signifies the significant strides India has made in the field of indigenous defence aviation.
Today’s flight also highlights the enhanced cooperation between the services, an essential pillar for modern warfare. As both Chiefs soared together in the skies, they exemplified the deepening bond and collaboration between the Army and the Air Force, vital to achieving operational excellence. The Indian Army’s role in the air domain is becoming increasingly pivotal, especially in tactical battle areas where advanced technologies such as helicopters, unmanned aerial systems, and air defence systems play a crucial role.
This historic moment serves as a clear indicator of the evolving landscape of warfare, where jointness and seamless integration between the Army and the Air Force will define success in the future. The ongoing decade of transformation (2023-2032) is reshaping the future of defence operations, and the period of 2024-2025 will be crucial for integrating cutting-edge technologies across all domains.
Aero India 2025, the premier aerospace exhibition, provides an exceptional platform for defence industry leaders to engage, collaborate, and explore emerging technologies. It serves as an ideal venue for the Indian Armed Forces to forge stronger ties with the industry and acquire the best solutions to modernize and enhance their operational capabilities.
Today’s flight by General Dwivedi and Air Marshal Singh is not only a remarkable event but a reflection of India’s unwavering commitment to nation-building through indigenous defence production. As the country continues its journey towards self-sufficiency, the collaboration between the Army and the Air Force, backed by innovations like the Tejas, reinforces India’s standing as a rising global defence power.