The 24th Production Test Pilots Course recently concluded at the Air Force Test Pilots School, part of the Aircraft and Systems Testing Establishment (ASTE), in Bengaluru. The graduation ceremony was attended by distinguished guests, including Air Marshal Vijay Kumar Garg, the Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Maintenance Command of the Indian Air Force.

During the ceremony, Squadron Leader Ashish Bhardwaj was honored with the Best All-Round Student Trophy for demonstrating exceptional performance throughout the rigorous training program. The course saw the successful completion of seven officers, comprising six from the Indian Air Force and one from the Indian Coast Guard. The graduates of this course are poised to significantly contribute to India’s ambitions in aerospace technology, particularly in enhancing the country’s self-reliance in defense and supporting indigenous aircraft production initiatives.

Over the years, the Air Force Test Pilots School has gained a stellar reputation for nurturing proficient test pilots who have played pivotal roles in advancing India’s defense aerospace and space endeavors, including participation in landmark missions such as Gaganyaan. The Ministry of Defence highlighted the school’s contributions to international collaboration by training officers from various friendly foreign nations, further solidifying its global standing in aerospace training.

Since its inception, the school has successfully conducted a total of 46 flight test courses, along with 23 Production Test Pilots Courses and four Remotely Piloted Aircraft Test Courses, showcasing its commitment to excellence in flight testing and pilot training.