Air Force Technical College Marks Milestone with Graduation of Aeronautical Engineers in Bengaluru
The Air Force Technical College (AFTC) in Bengaluru celebrated a major achievement with the graduation ceremony of its 105th Aeronautical Engineering Course. The event, noted for its military precision and grandeur, saw 58 Indian officers along with 13 international officers from 10 allied nations receiving their ceremonial wings, marking their readiness to assume roles as aeronautical engineers in their respective air forces.
Air Marshal Vijay Kumar Garg, AVSM, VSM, who serves as the Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief of Maintenance Command, Indian Air Force, acted as the Reviewing Officer for the parade. In his address, he highlighted the crucial role of fearless leadership and innovation in navigating the technological challenges of today. He urged the graduates, stating, “As young leaders, you are the backbone of our technical expertise. Be fearless in your pursuit of excellence and uphold the values of the Indian Air Force.”
The ceremony included a precisely coordinated parade with cadets moving in perfect alignment as helicopters roared overhead, emphasizing AFTC’s commitment to training in advanced technologies related to aircraft, weapon systems, and support infrastructures. Established on July 4, 1949, in partnership with the Air Service Training Corps, UK, AFTC has grown into a leading Category-A training establishment.
Graduates receive an M.Tech in Aeronautical Engineering upon completing their initial training, reflecting the institution’s academic rigor and global recognition. A significant moment was the presentation of the Sword of Honour to Flying Officer S. Madhu, who achieved the highest merit in the course. Air Marshal Garg presented the sword, symbolizing the dedication and excellence that future air warriors will inspire.
The presence of 13 international officers from 10 countries highlights India’s increasing prominence as a center for aerospace education and training. This trend supports a 15% increase in international military collaborations since 2020, as indicated by a 2023 Journal of Defense Studies report. Foreign dignitaries at the event emphasized AFTC’s global partnerships and its role in promoting international cooperation.
The institution’s curriculum is crafted to develop military leadership, management skills, and the ethos of an air warrior. Taught by a faculty comprising specialists with advanced degrees from IITs, IISc, and DIAT, it ensures that graduates are well-equipped to manage the complexities of modern warfare, furthering India’s pursuit of self-reliance in defense technology.
While celebrating these achievements, the ceremony also took place amidst discussions on accountability in defense projects. Air Marshal Garg called on officers to maintain the highest standards of professionalism and ethics, subtly addressing integrity concerns in defense procurement.
The graduation of the 105th Aeronautical Engineering Course underscored the AFTC motto, “Gyanen Shobamahe” (Excellence Through Knowledge). As India continues to modernize its defense infrastructure, institutions like AFTC will play a vital role in developing a technologically advanced and self-reliant military force. Under the leadership of figures like Air Marshal Garg, the Indian Air Force is poised to tackle future challenges, one fearless engineer at a time.
