Air Marshal Philip Rajkumar Honoured with Karnataka Rajyotsava Award for Contributions to Defence Aviation
The Indian Air Force has extended its congratulations to Air Marshal Philip Rajkumar (Retd) for receiving the Karnataka Rajyotsava Award in the Science and Technology category. This honor highlights his significant contributions to India's indigenous defense aviation programs.
As a pioneering test pilot and the former Commandant of the Aircraft and Systems Testing Establishment (ASTE), Air Marshal Rajkumar was integral to the Tejas Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) project. Serving as the Project Director at the Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA), his leadership and technical expertise were crucial in advancing the Tejas from its prototype phase to successful flight trials. His efforts have been pivotal in establishing India's self-reliance in combat aircraft design and development.
A veteran of the 1965 War, Air Marshal Rajkumar had a distinguished career with the Indian Air Force, marked by decades of service and innovation. Even after retirement, he continued to contribute to the aerospace sector through research, writing, and mentorship. He is the author of The Tejas Story: The Light Combat Aircraft Project, which is a widely praised narrative of India's journey in developing indigenous fighter aircraft.
The Indian Air Force praised his accomplishments, emphasizing that his contributions "embody the spirit of Atmanirbharta in defense aviation" and serve as an inspiration for future generations of Indian aerospace engineers and pilots.
The Karnataka Rajyotsava Award, recognized as one of the state's highest civilian honors, acknowledges individuals who have made remarkable contributions in their fields. The award bestowed upon Air Marshal Rajkumar underscores his lifelong commitment to enhancing India's aeronautical capabilities and fostering self-reliance in defense technology.
