Air Marshal B Manikantan, Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Southern Air Command (SAC), visited Air Force Station Thanjavur, where he was honored with a ceremonial Guard of Honour. During his visit, the Air Marshal inaugurated the Station Historical Cell, a new initiative aimed at preserving and showcasing the rich history of the airbase.

Air Force Station Thanjavur, located 12 km southwest of Thanjavur city in Tamil Nadu, has been a key strategic asset for the Indian Air Force (IAF) since its official inauguration on May 27, 2013. The base is home to the IAF’s No. 222 squadron, which operates Sukhoi Su-30 MKI fighter aircraft—the first IAF fighter squadron in Southern India. The station has also played a vital role in disaster relief efforts, notably during the 2008 Tamil Nadu floods, when IAF helicopters operating from the base delivered 15,000 kg of relief materials to affected areas.

During the visit, Air Marshal Manikantan toured various sections of the base and interacted with air warriors, commending their dedication and professionalism. In his address, he emphasized the importance of realistic training, equipment serviceability, and optimal resource utilization to maintain a high level of operational preparedness. This focus aligns with the IAF’s broader efforts to modernize and strengthen its capabilities, especially in light of recent developments such as the induction of a new Chetak (SA 316B) helicopter unit at Thanjavur on March 19, 2024.

The newly inaugurated Station Historical Cell is expected to serve as a repository of the airbase’s legacy, highlighting its contributions to national security and regional stability under the Southern Air Command’s motto, “Antariksham Prashasmahe” (We Command the Space). The SAC continues to play a critical role in safeguarding India’s southern airspace, and this visit underscores the IAF’s commitment to operational excellence and historical preservation.