Air Marshal PV Shivanand, Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief, South Western Air Command, Indian Air Force, recently visited Air Force Station Jodhpur to review the station’s operational preparedness ahead of forthcoming international exercises.
On arrival, the Air Marshal was accorded a ceremonial Guard of Honour. During the visit, he reviewed the station’s Air Defence and Air Operations facilities and assessed its preparedness to meet emerging operational requirements.
As part of the visit, Air Marshal Shivanand also undertook a sortie in the HAL Prachand Light Combat Helicopter (LCH), an indigenously designed and developed platform. The sortie highlighted the Indian Air Force’s operational employment of indigenous capabilities and its continued emphasis on Atmanirbharta in defence.
Interacting with personnel of the station, the Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief commended their professionalism, commitment and high morale. He exhorted them to maintain a sustained focus on 24×7 operational vigilance, professional excellence and rigorous training, while strengthening physical and mental resilience.
The visit underscored the Indian Air Force’s emphasis on maintaining a high state of operational readiness and ensuring that its personnel and assets remain prepared to respond effectively to evolving security challenges.

