Chandigarh: Government has approved the creation of a new branch called the Weapon Systems Branch in the IAF under which operators of ground-based and specialist airborne weapon systems will be unified under one umbrella.
IAF Chief Air Chief Marshal VR Chaudhari announced the decision while addressing the troops during 90th Air Force Day celebrations in Chandigarh on Saturday.
"On this historic occasion, it is my privilege to announce that the Government has approved the creation of a Weapon System Branch for officers in the IAF. This is the first time since independence that a new operational branch is being created," the IAF Chief 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," the IAF Chief added.
Air Chief Marshal VR Chaudhari further said that creation of this branch would result in savings of over Rs 3,400 Crores due to reduced expenditure on flying training.
The creation of Weapon System Branch would entail unification of all weapon system operators under one entity dedicated to the operational employment of all ground-based and specialist airborne weapon systems.
The branch will contribute immensely by enhancing the war fighting capability of the Indian Air Force, the Defence Ministry said.