Air Marshal George Thomas, the Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Western Air Command, conducted a visit to a frontline air base on May 6, 2026, focused on evaluating operational preparedness and recent developments at the facility.
During his visit, Air Marshal Thomas inaugurated the Tri-Service Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) School, marking a significant advancement in the collaboration among the three military branches. This new institution is designed to serve as a comprehensive training center for unmanned warfare, encompassing everything from tactics development to procedural integration and force structure alignment for UAS operations across the Army, Navy, and Air Force.
The Air Marshal’s itinerary included a thorough inspection of diverse operational aspects at the base. He reviewed flying operations, training activities, maintenance practices, and the overall administrative functioning of the station. This meticulous assessment aimed to ensure sustained readiness and efficiency in areas critical to mission success.
In discussions with the personnel, Air Marshal Thomas praised the air warriors for their professionalism, dedication, and high morale. He underscored the vital role of teamwork and inter-service collaboration in fulfilling operational objectives and bolstering the capabilities of the Indian Air Force.
This visit emphasizes the Indian Air Force’s commitment to modernization and joint operational capabilities, particularly in emerging fields such as unmanned systems, which are essential to tackling evolving security challenges. The establishment of the UAS School signals a proactive approach to enhancing the strategic capabilities of the Indian military forces in a rapidly changing global landscape.
