The Indian Air Force (IAF) marked a significant milestone in its aviation history with the graduation of the first-ever batch of test pilots for Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS), commonly known as drones. The valedictory ceremony, held on Friday at the Air Force Test Pilots School (AFTPS) in Bengaluru, also saw the culmination of the 25th Production Test Pilots (PTP) Course.
A Landmark Ceremony for Future Testing
Air Marshal KAA Sanjeeb, the Director General (Aircraft), presided over the event as the chief guest. The ceremony was attended by senior representatives from key defence and aerospace organisations, including the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), the Society of Experimental Test Pilots (SETP), and the Society of Flight Test Engineers (SFTE). During the function, meritorious student officers were presented with trophies in recognition of their exceptional performance throughout the rigorous courses.
The newly graduated officers from the PTP and the UAS Test Course are now poised to take on critical roles. They will be involved in the test flying of production aircraft and, crucially, in the evaluation of indigenous unmanned aerial systems currently under development in the country.
Strengthening India's Defence Self-Reliance
A statement from the Ministry of Defence (MoD) emphasised the strategic importance of this development. It stated that the work of these test pilots and engineers is expected to play a key role in fortifying India's Atmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India) initiatives within the defence aerospace sector. By testing and validating home-grown drone technology, these professionals will directly contribute to reducing dependency on foreign imports and enhancing national security capabilities.
The Premier Training Institution
The MoD highlighted the unique position of the AFTPS, which operates under the Aircraft and Systems Testing Establishment (ASTE). It is the only institution in India that trains experimental and production flight test crews for fixed-wing aircraft, rotary-wing aircraft (helicopters), and unmanned aerial systems. Over the years, the school has produced test crews who have made substantial contributions to major defence aeronautical programmes and even to space missions like the Gaganyaan programme.
The school boasts an impressive legacy, having graduated 47 Flight Test Courses, 24 Production Test Pilots Courses, and four Remotely Piloted Aircraft (RPA) Test Courses so far. Its international standing is well-recognised, with endorsements from prestigious global bodies such as the SETP, SFTE, and the Aeronautical Society of India. The institution has also trained officers from friendly foreign nations, cementing its reputation as a centre of excellence.
With this new cadre of drone test pilots, India takes a confident step forward in mastering the cutting-edge technology that will define the future of military and aerospace operations, firmly aligning with the vision of a self-reliant defence ecosystem.
