Air Marshal B Manikantan Assesses Combat Readiness at Gwalior Air Force Station
Air Marshal B Manikantan, serving as the Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Central Air Command, paid a visit to the Air Force Station in Gwalior from April 23 to 24, 2026. The purpose of the visit was to evaluate the base's operational readiness and combat effectiveness.
Comprehensive Operational Review
During his inspection, Air Marshal Manikantan conducted a thorough review which included:
| Assessing the readiness of the air base and its combat units |
| Reviewing operational strategies and preparedness measures |
| Engaging with personnel of various ranks |
Focus on Vigilance and Preparedness
Air Marshal Manikantan placed emphasis on several key areas, stressing the importance of:
| Maintaining constant vigilance in light of current security concerns |
| Ensuring high levels of operational readiness |
| Being prepared for swift action against emerging threats |
Recognition of Professional Excellence
The Air Marshal also took the opportunity to commend air warriors for their dedication, noting specifically:
| Their professionalism |
| Recent achievements in both operational and support roles |
| Their unwavering commitment to excellence |
Highlight on Modernisation Efforts
Highlighting the Indian Air Force's initiatives, the AOC-in-C discussed efforts aimed at:
| Boosting overall combat capabilities |
| Optimising existing processes for better efficiency |
| Strengthening operational efficiency |
AFFWA Engagement
Dr (Mrs) Nirmala T Manikantan, who serves as the President of the Air Force Wives Welfare Association (Regional), accompanied the Air Marshal. During the visit, she engaged with families at the station and reviewed welfare initiatives.
