Air Marshal B Manikantan, Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Central Air Command, recently visited Air Force Station Gorakhpur on November 26 and 27. His visit commenced with a ceremonial Guard of Honour, signifying the start of an in-depth two-day review aimed at assessing the station’s operational and administrative preparedness.
During the visit, Air Marshal Manikantan evaluated the base’s operational readiness, taking part in a sortie in a Jaguar aircraft. This activity underscored the Indian Air Force’s unwavering dedication to sustaining high levels of combat readiness and mission capability. He also inspected critical operational and support infrastructure, reviewing ongoing upgrades and initiatives that align with the IAF’s modernization efforts.
A key moment during the visit was the inauguration of a One Megawatt Solar Power Plant, marking a significant advancement in the station’s energy self-sufficiency and the promotion of sustainable practices within the IAF. This initiative is an essential step towards reducing reliance on traditional energy sources and enhancing the station’s environmental stewardship.
In addition to reviewing operational aspects, Air Marshal Manikantan conducted interactive sessions with the air warriors stationed at Gorakhpur. He commended their professionalism and dedication, urging them to uphold a high standard of operational readiness. He highlighted the necessity for continuous training, technological adaptation, and a mission-focused mindset to tackle the evolving security challenges faced by the nation.
This visit served to reinforce the Central Air Command’s commitment to not only operational excellence but also to infrastructure modernization and environmental sustainability, which are vital components of the Indian Air Force’s evolving capability framework. The initiatives discussed and implemented during this visit exemplify a proactive approach to enhancing the readiness and resilience of the IAF in a rapidly changing security landscape.
