Indian Air Force (IAF) chief Air Chief Marshal VR Chaudhari on Saturday announced the creation of the new weapon systems branch to handle all types of latest weapon systems in the force which would also result in saving of Rs 3400 crore due to reduced expenditure on flying training.

The move will essentially be for manning 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.

Weapon System Branch (WSB)- Taking a leap towards technology advancement will induct specialised cadre officers for handling the latest weapon systems.

WSB (Flying): Weapon system operators in twin seat/multi crew aircraft

WSB (Remote): Operational crew for remotely piloted aircraft/drones

WSB (Intelligence): Image intelligence analyst, information warfare specialists, observers and signal intelligence operators for remotely piloted aircraft/space-based systems

WSB (Surface): Mission commanders and operators for surface-to-air guided weapons, surface-to-surface missiles and close-in weapon systems

The Indian Air Force today began celebrations to mark its 90 years of foundation at the Sukhna Lake. This is the first time that the annual parade and fly-past are being held outside Delhi-NCR.

The IAF conducted an hour-long air show at the lake with participation by nearly 80 military aircraft and helicopters, including the recently inducted indigenously-built Light Combat Helicopter (LCH) "Prachand" will showcase their aerial prowess during the fly-past.

Air Force Day marks the official induction of the Indian Air Force (IAF) in 1932. Every year, the day is celebrated in the presence of the Indian Air Force chief and senior officers. The Air Force was officially raised as the supporting force of the Royal Air Force of the United Kingdom in 1932 and the first operational squadron was created in 1933.

Image courtesy: Times Now