| An Air force pilot is trained in air-to-air combat while flying a fighter plane. Their work involves the performance of a task, which includes attacking the enemy base and rescue the soldiers / civilians. It will also be necessary to carry out some missions keeping peace within and without. Some air force pilots fly a team to carry out bombing missions and / or deliver supplies. But most trained pilots are placed in combat roles.
During the Indouring the IndoPak war in 1971, fighter pilot Karamveer Shi shth (now Vashishth (now retired Indian Air Force Wing Commander) did not have much time to think of anything but manoeuvring his France-built Mystere MK IV A aircraft over one of the most vulnerable cross-national borders in the world -- at times a mere 50 feet over terra firma. Daredevilry and laser focus saw him through.
"There has to be an extremely accurate co-ordination of eyes, ears, mind and hand," what it takes to be a fighter pilot. "You have to have an incisive gaze and be able to gauge danger from a long distance. There is no room for error. If that happens, you won't be given a second chance."
Life for men who fly in a war is fraught with excitement and thrills -- the adrenaline rush cannot be written or talked about, just felt. "Even if you fly a singleseater aircraft, you must coordinate with your colleagues with cutting-edge perfection," says Air Marshal (retd) ML Sethi, who joined the IAF in 1950 to "serve the country and learn to be a good team member in the forces".
Career in Air force pilot is all about constant learning. A pilot needs in-depth knowledge of all types of aircraft he flies and deals with subjects like aerodynamics, principles of flight, avionics, airframe, aeroengine and combat tactics. Definitely going to live an interesting life - one that is comfortable, too, especially when they are flying. You get a posting at one base for around two years, and at each place, you are given a semi furnished house (very senior ranking officers get fully furnished houses). After an `air-borne' day, relax by the pool or play squash, cricket and tennis in Air Force Club. "Life is full of fun. You get enough time to socialize with the family of the Air Force. It is much better than civilian life.
Academically, too, you can win. Joining forces as graduate or undergraduate, you can continue to studying. Up two years of study leave is permitted. In addition to university education, should examine the defense and international journals and books. The accumulated knowledge in the air force service is useful for a second career - most officers retire at 54, unless they reach the higher echelons. One of the best payment options and become a commercial airline pilot, or, as Air Marshal (Retired) SR Deshpande, become a writer in a specialized field. Through their management skills and a disciplined approach, defense officials have a good chance of being absorbed in the private sector. Retired officers can now join as middle and senior managers in corporate enterprises. They can also teach or become consultants. |
