The two day Commanders’ Conference of the New Delhi based Western Air Command was inaugurated by Air Chief Marshal PV Naik at Subroto Park, New Delhi today. The conference, which began with an underlying theme – ‘Mission Accomplishment with Integrity and Excellence’, is being attended by Commanders of all formations under Western Air Command and the Principal Staff Officers of the Command.
Addressing the Commanders, Air Marshal DC Kumaria, Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Western Air Command said, “As a part of the ongoing modernization process, Western Air Command has taken rapid strides in operationalisation of C-130J Super Hercules aircraft, as well as induction of critical components essential for Network Centric Warfare. There is a need to rapidly absorb new inductions over the next few years, as Western Air Command transforms into a much more potent fighting force”. “Increasing synergy with affiliated Army Commands has been an area of enhanced focus for WAC. Recent joint exercises between Army and Air Force have highlighted this fact by bringing out the immense contribution of Air Power and the resultant synergy in airland operations between the two Services”, he further added.
While praising the performance of all the stations and units of Western Air Command during the recently conducted exercise Gauntlet IV, he said, “The high standards achieved during the highly intensive 24 x 7 exercises were indicative of the imposing combat potential of Western Air Command. All the resources, energies, capabilities and potential must be directed towards mission accomplishment. We must be prepared to perform beyond the call of duty and while doing so, we must continue to look after those placed below us. Only then can we achieve our mission with integrity and excellence”.
During the Conference, the Commanders will focus on key issues such as infrastructure development, induction of new equipment, aviation and maintenance safety and welfare of Air Warriors. Concept of operations of Western Air Command in support of the Army Commands in its area of responsibility, would also be reviewed.
The occasion also saw the Air Chief release WAC’s Coffee Table Book- ‘Western Air Command : Dawn of a New Era’, which is a photo essay on the history of Western Air Command from its nascent days to the mighty force it has now become. This visit of the Air Chief to WAC, where he has held important operational appointments during his illustrious career, was also his farewell visit.
Indian Press Information Bureau
