AOC-in-C, SWAC unveils replica of Folland Gnat flown by Param Vir Chakra awardee Fg Offr Nirmaljit Singh Sekhon during the 1971 war
Wellington: Air Marshal PV Shivanand, Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief, South Western Air Command (SWAC), addressed the 82nd Staff Course and permanent staff at the Defence Services Staff College (DSSC), Wellington, sharing insights into contemporary operational planning, jointness and integrated operations.
During his address, Air Marshal Shivanand highlighted the importance of joint and integrated military operations in responding effectively to emerging challenges in today’s rapidly evolving strategic environment. He emphasised the Indian Air Force’s ability to respond with speed, agility and precision, underscoring the need for operational preparedness and seamless coordination among the armed forces.
A key highlight of the visit was a formal ceremony during which the AOC-in-C unveiled a replica of the Folland Gnat aircraft flown by Flight Officer Nirmaljit Singh Sekhon, Param Vir Chakra (PVC) awardee, during the 1971 India-Pakistan War.
Fg Offr Nirmaljit Singh Sekhon displayed exceptional courage while defending the skies over Srinagar, engaging enemy aircraft despite being heavily outnumbered. He successfully shot down two Pakistani Sabre jets before making the ultimate sacrifice. His extraordinary bravery and determination earned him the Param Vir Chakra, India’s highest military decoration for gallantry.
The newly unveiled replica will be displayed at the Somnath Foyer at DSSC, Wellington, serving as a lasting tribute to the legendary air warrior and his indomitable spirit. The installation is also intended to inspire officers undergoing professional military education at DSSC, encouraging future leaders of the Indian Armed Forces to draw lessons from Sekhon’s courage, commitment, leadership and devotion to duty.
The interaction with the 82nd Staff Course and permanent staff reinforced the importance of developing future military leaders capable of operating effectively in an increasingly complex and dynamic strategic environment.