The Indian Air Force (IAF) witnessed a proud and momentous occasion on 14 June 2025 with the Combined Graduation Parade (CGP) held at the Air Force Academy (AFA), Dundigal, Hyderabad. This grand parade celebrated the successful culmination of pre-commissioning training for 254 Flight Cadets from both the Flying and Ground Duty branches of the IAF, as they were formally commissioned as Flying Officers.
Presiding over the majestic event was Air Chief Marshal AP Singh, the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), who served as the Reviewing Officer (RO). He conferred the President’s Commission upon the newly graduated officers, marking the beginning of their professional journey as defenders of the nation’s skies.
A Parade Steeped in Tradition and Pride
Air Chief Marshal AP Singh was received with full ceremonial honours by Air Marshal Tejinder Singh, Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Training Command, and Air Marshal PK Vohra, Commandant of the AFA. The Reviewing Officer was accorded a General Salute, followed by a magnificent march past that showcased the discipline and precision of the cadets.
In addition to IAF cadets, the parade also celebrated the achievements of officers from sister services and allied nations. Nine Indian Navy officers, seven Indian Coast Guard officers, and one trainee from a friendly foreign country were awarded their coveted ‘Wings’ after successfully completing flying training, highlighting the academy’s role as a centre of joint and international military excellence.
A Day of Ceremonial Grandeur and Aerial Splendour
One of the most emotionally stirring moments was the Commissioning Ceremony, during which the cadets took an Oath of Allegiance administered by the AFA Commandant, pledging their loyalty to the Constitution and sovereignty of India.
The ceremony dazzled spectators with aerial performances and precision drills, including:
- An aerobatic show by the iconic Suryakiran Aerobatic Team
- Gravity-defying stunts by the Akash Ganga Skydiving Team
- Demonstrations by the Air Warrior Drill Team
- Fly-pasts by advanced trainer aircraft like the Pilatus PC-7 MkII, Hawk, Kiran Mk-I, and Chetak
Recognizing Excellence and Achievement
The Reviewing Officer honoured outstanding cadets for their excellence in training. Notably:
- Flying Officer Rohan Krishnamurti received both the President’s Plaque and the Chief of the Air Staff Sword of Honour for topping the Pilots’ course.
- Flying Officer Nishtha Vaid was presented the President’s Plaque for excelling in the Ground Duty branches.
These accolades symbolize the dedication and excellence expected of the IAF’s finest.
CAS’s Address: A Call to Service and Innovation
In a heartfelt and inspiring address, CAS AP Singh lauded the graduating officers for their “immaculate turnout, precise drill movements, and commitment to excellence.” He reminded them that their career path, though demanding, is one of unmatched honour and service.
The CAS emphasized the changing dynamics of warfare and the increasing relevance of aerospace power, citing Operation Sindoor as a reflection of the IAF’s evolving operational capabilities. He declared, “The IAF has always been the first responder in times of national crisis — a legacy you must uphold with courage and conviction.”
He concluded by urging the young officers to prepare for the complex battlespace of the future, as the IAF transforms into a true aerospace force, with many of them likely to contribute to India’s space endeavours.
Marching into a Future of Honour
The ceremony concluded with the marching out of the newly commissioned officers, who departed the parade ground in perfect formation to martial tunes, cheered on by their families and mentors. For the officers, this day was not just a graduation — it was the birth of a lifelong commitment to uphold the core values of the Indian Air Force: Mission, Integrity, and Excellence.
The Combined Graduation Parade 2025 stands as a poignant reminder of India’s growing air power and the indomitable spirit of its air warriors — men and women who have chosen to soar high in service of the motherland.
