Indian Air Force's TACDE: An Advanced Training Program for Fighter Pilots

The Indian Air Force (IAF) has a robust training program for fighter pilots, similar to the famous U.S. Navy's Top Gun school. This program is conducted through the Tactics and Air Combat Development Establishment (TACDE), which focuses on advanced air combat tactics and techniques.

Overview of TACDE

Established in 1971 as a specialized training program for the top one percent of pilots, TACDE is akin to the rigorous selection and training processes found in the U.S. Navy's Top Gun school. It is divided into two wings: one for the development of tactics and the other for the training of aircrew and Special Air Gunnery Wing (SAGW) crew.

History and Operational Role

TACDE was established under the command of Wing Commander A.K. Mukherjee and its first base was in Adampur, Punjab. During the 1971 Indo-Pak war, TACDE’s squadrons were assigned significant operational roles, particularly in night counter-air strikes on major Pakistani airfields. These missions demonstrated the precision and effectiveness of the TACDE-trained pilots.

Aircraft Operated

TACDE operates a variety of advanced aircraft, including the:

Sukhoi Su-7 MiG-21 Type-77 MiG-27 MiG-29 Mirage-2000 Sukhoi Su-30 MKI

TACDE Bases

The training grounds for TACDE have moved through a series of locations:

Adampur, Punjab: 1970-72 Jamnagar, Gujarat: 1972-2000 Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh: 2000 to present

Due to environmental challenges, such as strong salt-laden sea breezes and tornado-like storms, TACDE moved from Jamnagar to Gwalior in 2000.

Awards and Honors

TACDE's wartime contributions have been officially recognized with numerous accolades, including:

One Vir Chakra Thirteen Mentions In Despatches One Vayu Sena Medal Four Commendations by AOC in C The honor of 'Battle Honours' from the President of India in 1995 for its role in the 1971 Indo-Pak conflict

Motto and Crest

The motto of TACDE, "Tejas Tejaswi Namaham – I am the glory of the glorious," encapsulates the spirit of excellence. The official crest features two crossed swords on a blood red background, symbolizing the intense air combat training.

For those interested in learning more about the rigorous training programs and the fighting spirit of the Indian Air Force, TACDE stands as a testament to the dedication and skills of its pilots.