Lt Gen Devendra Sharma Reviews CAATS Passing Out Parade and High-Tech 'Exercise Aviation Shakti'

On June 2, 2026, Lieutenant General Devendra Sharma, PVSM, AVSM, SM, who serves as the General Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Army Training Command, presided over the Passing Out Parade at the Combat Army Aviation Training School (CAATS) in Nashik.

This event celebrated the completion of rigorous training for officers who participated in various courses, including the Combat Army Aviators Course, Army Helicopter Instructor Course, Basic Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems (RPAS) Course, and RPAS Instructor Course.

Officers who graduated during the ceremony received their Aviation Wings, Instructor Badges, and professional qualifications, marking their preparedness to take on aviation duties within the Indian Army.

A highlight of the event was Exercise Aviation Shakti, a robust combat demonstration that illustrated the advanced capabilities of the Army Aviation Corps in contemporary warfare.

This exercise showcased the synchronized use of RPAS platforms, weapon-system-integrated helicopters, Advanced Light Helicopters (ALH), and Cheetah and Chetak helicopters. These aircraft worked in tandem with armored and infantry units in simulated combat environments.

The exercise presented advanced concepts such as Manned-Unmanned Teaming (MUM-T), real-time intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR), precision engagement capabilities, and integrated battlefield operations. It demonstrated the Indian Army's increased emphasis on technology-driven, multi-domain warfare to enhance operational efficiency.

Lieutenant General Sharma lauded the officers for completing their challenging training and recognized the professionalism shown during the exercise. He also praised the Commandant of CAATS and his team for their dedication to providing realistic, technology-oriented, and future-ready aviation training.

The exercise highlighted the Indian Army's dedication to bolstering its aviation and unmanned systems capabilities as part of its broader efforts to modernize and transform battlefield operations.

Through the successful execution of the Passing Out Parade and Exercise Aviation Shakti, the Army Aviation Corps reaffirmed its essential role in supporting operational mobility, reconnaissance, precision engagements, and integrated combat operations in future military engagements.