Air Chief Marshal A.P. Singh with IAF officers at the Southern Air Command HQ, Akkulam, on Monday:
| Photo Credit: Special arrangement
Chief of the Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal A.P. Singh, on Monday highlighted the crucial role of the Southern Air Command (SAC) in safeguarding the Indian Ocean Region and advancing India’s strategic interests.
The Air Chief was addressing the Annual Commanders’ Conference of SAC at the SAC HQ at Akkulam. He emphasised operational preparedness and integrated functioning among the services, urging personnel to work cohesively in the interest of national security. He also stressed the need for constant operational readiness and robust security measures.
During his visit, the Air Chief was briefed on the ongoing initiatives, operational readiness including air defence of the southern region and the ongoing expansion of Indian Air Force’s (IAF) reach and capability in the Indian Ocean Region. The theme of the conference ‘Operational Efficiency through Decision Autonomy’, underscored the IAF’s evolving approach to modern warfare through decentralised leadership, a defence spokesperson said.
On his arrival in Thiruvananthapuram, the Air Chief was received by Air Marshal Manish Khanna, Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief, SAC, and was presented with a ceremonial Guard of Honour.
Published – February 16, 2026 11:01 pm IST
