IAF’s new weapon system branch: Five bullet points of the new weapon system branch for Indian Air Force

By Indraneel Chakrabarty: On the auspicious occasion of the 90th anniversary of the Indian Air Force, the Centre has approved the creation of a weapon system branch for IAF officers. This is the first such moment since independence that a new operational branch has been created.

During the celebration in Chandigarh, Air Chief Marshal VR Chaudhari said, “This will essentially be for manning of four specialised streams of Surface-to-Surface missiles, Surface to Air Missiles, Remotely Piloted Aircraft and Weapon System Operators in twin and multi-crew aircraft.” Here all you need to know about a new weapon system branch for IAF officers.

• The branch would encompass operators in four specialised streams of Surface-to-Surface missiles, Surface-to-Air missiles, Remotely Piloted Aircraft and Weapon System Operators in twin/multi-crew aircraft.
• The creation of a new branch would cause the unification of all weapon system operators under one umbrella dedicated to the operational employment of all ground-based and specialist airborne airborne weapon systems.
• The branch would also include the Weapon Systems Operators who would fly in twin-engine or Mukti crew planes like the Su-30MKI.
• The creation of this branch would result in savings of over ₹3,400 crore due to reduced expenditure on flying training.
• The branch will contribute immensely by enhancing the war fighting capability of the Indian Air Force.