Desa Squadron wins Commandant’s Banner at Air Force Academy

Desa Squadron was declared the Champion Squadron for Spring Term 2026 at the Air Force Academy, Dundigal, and received the prestigious Commandant's Banner. The award recognises overall excellence across academics, sports, drill competitions, leadership activities and military training.

Hyderabad: Desa Squadron was adjudged the Champion Squadron for Spring Term 2026 during the ‘Commandant’s Banner Conferment Ceremony’ organised at the Tejas Parade Ground, Air Force Academy (AFA), Dundigal, here on Saturday.

Squadron Cadet Captain, Flight Cadet Vatan Dhindsa, received the highly sought-after Commandant’s Banner from Air Marshal Rahul Bhasin, Commandant, AFA.

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Naidu Squadron clinched the coveted trophy through outstanding precision, immaculate drill execution, exceptional coordination and exemplary teamwork.

The award of Commandant’s Banner to the Champion Squadron symbolises overall excellence and marks the conclusion of a fiercely contested series of events, ranging from physical activities, sports, debate, quiz, cross-country runs, field camps, drill competitions and academics.

The flight cadets and under-training flying officers (UTFOs) in impeccable uniforms captivated the distinguished audience, which included all instructional staff and senior officers of the Academy. Their disciplined march past perfectly blended with the stirring martial tunes played by the No 3 Air Force Band.

In his address to the flight cadets and UTFOs, the Commandant lauded their unwavering commitment, perseverance, teamwork, sporting spirit and pursuit of excellence. He exhorted them to be physically fit and mentally agile throughout their careers, in keeping with the Academy motto, ‘Shram Se Siddhi’. The Commandant also appreciated the instructors and training staff for their crucial role in transforming raw civilians into confident, mission-oriented leaders imbued with the ethos to lead with courage, conviction and honour.