Chief of the Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal AP Singh, delivered a significant address on Friday, emphasising the critical lessons from a recent military engagement. Speaking in Chandigarh, the Air Chief stated that Operation Sindoor has clearly established the decisive role of air power as the primary responder and deterrent in contemporary conflict scenarios.
Synergy and Sovereignty: Key Takeaways from the Conflict
The Air Chief made these remarks while delivering the keynote address at the inaugural Air Commodore Mehar Singh Memorial Talk Series, held at the Air Force Station in Chandigarh on January 10, 2026. A statement issued by the Indian Air Force (IAF) quoted him lauding the successful conduct of the operation.
He underscored that the short but intensive conflict demonstrated several vital aspects of modern warfare. The seamless synchronisation between the military and political leadership was a cornerstone of the operation's success. Furthermore, the armed forces were granted full freedom to execute their plans, which was decisively followed by a clear conflict termination strategy.
Charting the Future: Indigenisation and Jointness
Looking ahead, Air Chief Marshal AP Singh outlined the roadmap for strengthening India's defence capabilities. He stressed on the paramount importance of indigenisation, research & development (R&D), and fostering jointness and synergy among the different branches of the armed forces. Addressing the gathering, which included students, he exhorted them to work together as a unified team, transcending any divides.
The event was organised by the Air Force Association (North Zone) branch, in collaboration with 12 Wing, Air Force. Its purpose was to reflect on the enduring legacy of the legendary Air Commodore Mehar Singh. Air Marshal Sukhchain Singh (Retd), President of the AFA (North Zone), explained the genesis of establishing this annual memorial talk series.
He stated that the Air Force Association is committed to promoting awareness of the IAF's rich history and heritage, aiming to foster patriotism and national pride. The lecture series is designed to be an annual platform for professional thought, reflection, and dialogue on strategic issues related to air power.
Honouring Legacy and Valour
The memorial event also featured several other notable moments. Historian Anchit Gupta detailed Air Cmde Mehar Singh's monumental achievements and his contribution to building the operational prowess of the then-fledgling Indian Air Force.
Air Marshal Tejbir Singh, DG (I&S), delivered the first memorial talk, tracing the IAF's airlift capability journey from the era of Air Cmde Mehar Singh to the present day and future plans. In a poignant moment, Colonel Dharambir Singh Khara (Retd), the nephew of Air Cmde Mehar Singh, was felicitated. The late officer died in a tragic air crash when Col Khara was just two years old.
The event also celebrated the spirit of service beyond duty. Air Marshal Jagjeet Singh (Retd), Senior Vice President of the Air Force Association, presented documents for an adaptive wheelchair to Ex-Sergeant Sanjeev Kumar Goel. Customised to his specific needs, the wheelchair will aid Goel, who lost both his legs in a 2019 accident. Despite his disability, he continues to serve humanity through blood donation and supports accident victims, veterans, and the underprivileged through various social organisations.
