Combat Army Aviation Training School (CATS) located at Gandhi Nagar Airfield, Nashik Road is the premier flying training institution of the Indian Army which functions under the aegis of Army Training Command (ARTRAC), Shimla. On 25 May 22, thirty seven officers were awarded the coveted ‘Aviation Wings’ to become Combat Helicopter Pilots after having successfully completed the Combat Aviators Course. It was a momentous occasion for Army Aviation as the first women helicopter pilot of Indian Army earned the coveted Aviation wings.
The ceremony was presided over by Lieutenant General Ajay Kumar Suri, Director General and Colonel Commandant Army Aviation. During the training, the officers underwent rigorous flying training. Officers with outstanding performance in various disciplines were awarded trophies to acknowledge their achievements.
Capt Ashish Kataria was awarded the ‘Silver Cheetah’ trophy for standing First in the Overall Order of merit and ‘Captain SK Sharma trophy for ‘Best in Flying’. Capt Shravan Manilathaya PM was awarded the Air Observation Post-35′ trophy for standing First in Ground Subjects. The ‘Fledgling’ trophy for standing First in Pre Army Pilot Course Serial Number 35 was awarded to Capt Abhilasha Barak and ‘Captain PK Gour’ trophy for ‘Best in Gunnery’ was awarded Capt RK Kashyap.
The Army Aviation Corps has completed 35 glorious years and was bestowed with the prestigious President’s ‘Colours’ by the Hon’ble President of India Shri Ram Nath Kovind in the year 2019. Army Aviation is undeniably a formidable force multiplier, a key combat enabler and a vital fighting arm of the Indian Army.
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M.Iyengar/P.Kor
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