In a significant move to assess the operational readiness of India’s military capabilities, General Anil Chauhan, the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), visited the Headquarters of the South Western Air Command (SWAC) situated in Jaipur. This visit is part of a broader review focused on the Western Theatre, occurring shortly after the successful completion of Operation Sindoor, which highlighted India’s advancements in integrated air defense during rising tensions with Pakistan.
Receiving General Chauhan were senior officials, including Air Marshal Nagesh Kapoor, the Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief of SWAC. The briefing provided by these officials centered on the strategic obligations of the command, principally regarding the defense of India’s western airspace covering regions such as Gujarat, Rajasthan, and parts of Maharashtra. The discussion included in-depth updates on both current and emerging military capabilities, particularly enhancing air defense systems and fostering inter-service cooperation.
Following the presentations, General Chauhan commended the Air Warriors for their commitment and operational effectiveness demonstrated during Operation Sindoor. He noted that the operation serves as a notable testament to India’s technological advancements and the effectiveness of joint military operations.
Operation Sindoor, executed in early May 2025, was pivotal in demonstrating the capabilities of the Integrated Air Command and Control System (IACCS), which has been developed by Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL). This sophisticated system integrates information from ground-based radars, airborne surveillance assets, and communication nodes to create a cohesive, real-time assessment of aerial threats. It played a crucial role throughout the four-day confrontation with Pakistan, enabling Indian forces to perform precision strikes while countering numerous aerial threats. Initial reports indicate significant losses for the Pakistan Air Force, including damage to approximately 20 percent of its infrastructure and casualties among 50 personnel, notably involving a senior officer.
Air Marshal Nagesh Kapoor, having taken the reins as AOC-in-C in May 2024, brings extensive experience to his role, having previously served as India’s Defence Attaché in Pakistan. His background as a veteran fighter pilot, which includes commanding a frontline fighter squadron and a major air base, has been instrumental in maintaining peak operational readiness within SWAC. His leadership has been pivotal in promoting innovation in air operations and joint force integration.
During his address, General Chauhan underscored the significance of inter-operability between the Indian Air Force, Army, and Navy. He reiterated that joint operations are now a cornerstone of India’s military doctrine. Particularly noteworthy was his acknowledgment of the incorporation of AI-enabled technologies and indigenous systems like Akashteer, which significantly improve real-time coordination among ground and aerial forces.
This visit by General Chauhan not only highlights India’s emphasis on bolstering national defense capabilities but also reflects the country’s proactive strategy in navigating the complexities of regional threats and geopolitical dynamics. The developments within SWAC are pivotal as India continues to fortify its strategic defense posture in an increasingly challenging environment.
