The Combined Graduation Parade took place at the Air Force Academy (AFA) in Dundigal, Hyderabad, showcasing the culmination of the rigorous pre-commissioning training for Flight Cadets from both the Flying and Ground Duty branches of the Indian Air Force (IAF). The ceremony, conducted with grandeur, was held on December 13, 2025, and was reviewed by General Anil Chauhan, Chief of Defence Staff, who conferred the President’s Commission to the graduating cadets of the 216 Course.
A total of 244 Flight Cadets were commissioned as Flying Officers during the event, which included 215 male and 29 female cadets. The ceremony began with the Chief of Defence Staff being received by Air Marshal Tejinder Singh, Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Training Command, along with Air Marshal PK Vohra, Commandant of the Air Force Academy. A formal General Salute was rendered to the Reviewing Officer, followed by a meticulously executed march past that left an impression of discipline and precision.
Notably, the parade also celebrated the achievements of officers from other branches. Six officers from the Indian Navy, eight from the Indian Coast Guard, and two trainees from Vietnam were awarded their ‘Wings’ after completing their flying training. In addition, five officers received ‘Brevets’ for the successful completion of their Navigation training, with family members in attendance to witness this significant milestone.
The Commissioning Ceremony was the highlight of the day, with the graduating cadets taking the oath of allegiance, pledging their commitment to uphold the integrity and sovereignty of the nation. The event featured a remarkable flypast showcasing aircraft such as the Pilatus PC-7, Hawk, Kiran, and Chetak, captivating those in attendance. The Akash Ganga skydiving team and the Air Warrior Drill Team (AWDT) delivered stunning displays, adding to the festive atmosphere.
In acknowledgment of exceptional performance, specific cadets received prestigious awards. Flying Officer Tanishq Aggarwal was honored with the President’s Plaque and the Nawanagar Sword of Honour for excelling in the Pilot Course. Similarly, Flying Officer Saksham Dobriyal received the President’s Plaque for his top performance in Navigation, while Flying Officer Nitesh Kumar earned the same distinction for his achievements in the Ground Duty branches.
Addressing the new officers, the Chief of Defence Staff praised their discipline and precision and spoke of the profound honor and responsibility associated with their new roles. He underscored the significance of humility and principled conduct, warning against the pitfalls of arrogance and ignorance.
The CDS further highlighted the evolving landscape of warfare, emphasizing the importance of technological advancements in achieving strategic advantages. He pointed to initiatives like Op Sindoor as a testament to the IAF’s commitment to professionalism, advocating for the principles of Jointness, Atmanirbharta, and Innovation as essential to enhancing India’s combat capabilities.
As the ceremony drew to a close, the newly commissioned officers marched in two columns to stirring martial music. In a poignant moment, Air Chief Marshal AP Singh led a three-aircraft Kiran formation overhead, marking a ceremonial salute to the graduating class. The grand finale featured an impressive synchronized flying display from the Sarang Helicopter Display Team and the Suryakiran Aerobatic Team, concluding the parade with a spectacular celebration of the achievements and aspirations of the newest officers in the Indian Air Force.
