Indian Air Force established in the year 1932. Since then it has become an indispensable part of the Indian defense services. Currently, it has seven commands, five of which are functional and two are non-functional. It has shown tremendous progress and advancements over the years and has served the country at the times of need be it during wartime or during disasters. An evidence of its strength and commend ability comes from the fact that it was named Royal Indian Air Force in 1945 as a result of the recognition of its services and achievements in World War II. India has a credible air power which is counted as one amongst the best in the world. It is considered to be the seventh powerful air force of the world. Currently, it is served by 1.8 lakh personnel, more than 500 transport aircrafts and helicopters, and more than 600 combat aircrafts. This strength makes it the fourth largest Air Force of the world.

Career Roles & Responsibilities

Indian Air Force provides eligible candidates with various Air Force Officer job profiles. They are broadly classified into three main categories Flying Branch, Technical Branch and Ground Duty Branch. Some of the popular air force officer job profiles are listed below:

Pilots:  They are mainly assigned with flying duties in Indian Air Force. Their duties can vary from flying fighter plans to providing supplies during calamities and others.

Fighter Pilots: Fighter Pilots are well trained and equipped in air flights to shoot down enemy aircraft and attack ground targets in enemy territory. Their main job role is to safeguard and defence one’s own territory from the enemy. They are equipped with electronic devices, radars and cameras for pinpoint bombing and target acquisition. It is recognised as one of the prestigious jobs in the Air Force as they are entrusted with such major responsibilities.

Navigators: Navigators are the Air Force offers that direct Pilots to the site by using navigational equipment, radars and other optical devices and release the bombs. Their basic job is to assist and direct the Pilots in navigation.

Transport Pilots: They are entrusted with a job of carrying men, material and explosives items like a bomb, weapons to the required places. Apart from this they also carry defence personnel, vehicles, ammunition from a place of war to another.

Air Traffic Control Officer: Their job role is to provide control and advisory services to pilots to ensure their safety and safeguard them from poor weather conditions.

Logistic Officer: The logistics officer in the Air Force is responsible for providing logistics support such as aircraft spares, mechanical transport, fuel and others.

Education Branch Officer: The education branch officer in the Air Force design training programmes which incorporate the latest technological developments. They also design courses for the officers.

Metrology Branch Officer: They perform scientific work such as weather forecasting using latest technologies and tools and conducting related research work.

Career Education Path Summary

How to Pursue a Career in the Indian Air Force

Important Facts

• One can appear for CDS while in final year of graduation as well.
• Most of these exams are conducted twice a year.
• Not all these exams are open for females.
• For NDA age range is 16.5 years to 19 years.
• NDA is open only to male unmarried candidates.
• One needs to be a citizen of India or Nepal/Bhutan/Tibet refugee to apply.
• Age range for entrances after graduation is 20-26 years.
• Minimum 60% aggregate in graduation is needed.
• Apart from educational criteria, physical as well as medical standards as set by Indian Air Force should also be met to be eligible.