Ankur Choudhary

I am presently serving as Operations Adjutant and Procurement Manager (ATG) at Air Force Station Sulur—the only IAF base housing fighters, transports, and helicopters. I oversee all day-to-day operational activities. I was responsible for coordinating operations during Ex Tarang Shakti, the IAF's first multinational exercise involving four European nations. In addition, I manage all training-related procurements for the station and handle key administrative roles, including Officer in Charge of the Officers’ Mess, and Air Force Canteen.

Achieved Cat 'AYE' qualification, highest RPA pilot designation in VLOS operations. Was awarded as Best in Flying and Ground Subjects during the RPA Instructors Course. Gained the distinction of becoming the second directing staff-graded RPA instructor in VLOS operations in the IAF. Delivered ab initio and continuity training to external pilots of the entire IAF. Was instrumental in formulating VLOS training policies, elevating VLOS training standards across the IAF. Enhanced expertise in BVLOS operations and specialized payloads while at Command HQ and Air HQ. Contributed to training policy development for establishment of new Weapon Systems branch in IAF.

Executed ISR operations in support of the Indian Army during Counter Insurgency missions in the Jammu region, while participating in real-time missions along the borders with Pakistan and China. Gained operational expertise in VLOS and BVLOS flying over mountainous terrain in sub-zero conditions. Trained as a Payload Operator for electro-optical systems, enhancing mission effectiveness, and served as an Observer, developing foundational skills in image interpretation and satellite imagery analysis.

Gained advanced expertise in VLOS and BVLOS operations through real-time ISR missions over the Arabian Sea, collaborating with the Indian Navy and Coast Guard to enhance operational effectiveness. Supported the Border Security Force in ISR and counter-smuggling operations along Gujarat’s border areas. Achieved Mid-Level Professional Qualifications for RPA operations and was awarded a Commendation from the Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief (SWAC) for exceptional performance during a late night recovery mission, successfully recovering a Searcher Mk-II RPA after multiple electrical failures, demonstrating strong emergency response and decision making skills.

During my second tenure at a combat transport squadron of the IAF, I developed advanced operational expertise on the An-32 aircraft, executing critical missions such as para-jumping, low-level navigation, bombing runs, and high-altitude valley flying. Gained extensive experience in tactical airlift operations under challenging conditions, ensuring the safe transport of personnel and cargo. Further honed my skills in precision bombing, terrain-following navigation, valley flying, and handling extreme environments. Earned mid-level professional qualification on An-32 aircraft, reflecting strong proficiency in mission execution and decision making. Strengthened technical, tactical, and leadership capabilities, significantly contributing to squadron success.

Acquired strong remote piloting skills through intensive training on fixed-wing and half-scale aeromodels.
Completed initial VLOS and BVLOS operations training on MALE UAVs, including Mk-II and Heron.
Achieved professional qualifications on RPA systems in IAF while honing flight maneuvering techniques.
Executed missions in dynamic environments and adverse weather with precision and adaptability.
Demonstrated competence in ISR roles utilising advanced payloads, including EO, SAR, ESM, and COMINT.
Adapted to evolving tactical scenarios during both training exercises and operational missions.

Operated An-32 aircraft for critical transport, para-jumping, and low-level navigation missions.
Conducted high-priority airlifts and precision air drops under challenging conditions.
Successfully navigated to remote locations like Car Nicobar while ensuring operational effectiveness.
Completed rigorous training to obtain initial professional qualifications and flying categories for An-32.
Enhanced tactical flying skills and risk management capabilities in real-world scenarios.