Govt green-lights weapon system branch for IAF officers, 1st since independence

On the occasion of the 90th anniversary of the Indian Air Force (IAF), the Centre has approved the creation of a weapon system branch for IAF officers.

This is the first time since independence that a new operational branch has been created.

During the celebration in Chandigarh, Air Chief Marshal VR Chaudhari said, "This will essentially be for manning of four specialised streams of Surface to Surface missiles, Surface to Air Missiles, Remotely Piloted Aircraft and Weapon System Operators in twin and multi-crew aircraft."

#WATCH | Indian Air Force chief Air Chief Marshal VR Chaudhari today announced the creation of the new weapon systems branch to handle all types of latest weapon systems in the force which would also result in a saving of Rs 3400 cr. Watch the details of the branch.

(Video: IAF) pic.twitter.com/VYS9yc26I5— ANI (@ANI) October 8, 2022
"Creation of this branch would result in savings of over Rs 3,400 crore due to reduced expenditure on flying training," he added.

Talking of integrated and joint application of combat power, he said, "The key to success in multi-domain operations is to have flexible, robust and redundant command and control structures which will allow a joint force to dominate across domains."