Air Marshal Surat Singh Evaluates Operational Readiness of INS Vikrant

Air Marshal Surat Singh, AVSM, VM, VSM, the Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Eastern Air Command, paid a visit to INS Vikrant on January 18, 2026. This visit highlights the increasing focus on joint operations and integrated warfighting strategies within India's Armed Forces.

During his time on the aircraft carrier, the Air Marshal received comprehensive briefings on its advanced combat systems, aviation operations, and capabilities in force projection. These discussions underscored INS Vikrant’s state of operational readiness and its significant role in maritime air operations, power projection, and sea control within the Indian Ocean Region.

As he engaged with naval personnel, Air Marshal Surat Singh commended the high levels of professionalism, preparedness, and synergy evident among the crew. He stressed the necessity of strong coordination between the Indian Air Force and the Indian Navy to facilitate seamless joint operations, particularly given the context of emerging multi-domain threats.

This visit served to reinforce the commitment of the Indian Armed Forces to joint warfighting principles, enhancing interoperability and integrated operational planning, thereby bolstering India's defence capabilities across both air and maritime spheres.