Western Air Command: The Backbone of Indian Air Force’s Operations

 The Western Air Command (WAC) is the largest operational command of the Indian Air Force (IAF). Its headquarters is located in New Delhi, and it plays a crucial role in safeguarding India’s western frontiers. WAC operates 16 operational airbases across nine states and union territories, ensuring air superiority and strategic readiness in critical regions.

Many people may not know that Hindon Air Force Station in Ghaziabad, which falls under WAC, is the largest airbase in Asia. This command is responsible for the air defense of key regions, including Haryana, Punjab, New Delhi, Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, Western Uttar Pradesh, and Jammu & Kashmir.

Let’s take a closer look at some of the most significant airbases under WAC.

1. Siachen Forward Base Unit

Located at the Siachen Glacier, this forward base acts as a lifeline for the soldiers deployed in extreme conditions. Army Aviation Helicopters, including Cheetah helicopters, provide medical and logistical support to the soldiers in this high-altitude battleground.

2. Leh Air Force Station

Situated in the Ladakh region, the Leh Air Base plays a vital role in supplying and supporting the Siachen Base. The base houses:

• 102 Helicopter Unit (operating Cheetah helicopters)
• 130 Helicopter Unit (operating Mi-17 helicopters)

During periods of heightened tension, such as the India-China standoff, this base serves as a key operational hub.

3. Srinagar Air Force Station

The Srinagar Air Base is crucial for air defense in the Kashmir region. The base has played a key role in various military operations, including the Kargil War.

Notably, this airbase is associated with Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman, who operated the MiG-21 Bison from here during the 2019 Balakot airstrike and subsequent aerial dogfight.

4. Adampur Air Force Station

Located near Jalandhar, Punjab, Adampur AFS is one of the most strategically important airbases. It operates upgraded MiG-29 fighter jets, which are capable of rapid interception. Given its proximity to the Pakistan border, this base plays a key role in India’s defense strategy.

5. Chandigarh Air Force Station

Chandigarh AFS is mainly a logistics and transport hub for the IAF. The IL-76 and C-17 Globemaster transport aircraft operate from here, supporting troop movements and disaster relief operations.

6. Halwara Air Force Station

Located in Punjab, Halwara AFS is home to the Su-30MKI fighter jets, one of the most powerful aircraft in the IAF fleet. The base hosts:

• No. 220 Squadron ("Desert Tigers")
• No. 201 Squadron

Halwara AFS received the prestigious Presidential Colours in 2015 for its service to the nation.

7. Ambala Air Force Station

Ambala AFS is home to the No. 17 Squadron ("Golden Arrows"), which operates India’s first squadron of Rafale fighter jets. This airbase plays a crucial role in bolstering India's air defense capabilities.

8. Pathankot Air Force Station

Located close to the Pakistan border, Pathankot AFS is a vital airbase for national security. It houses:

• No. 3 Squadron (MiG-21 Bison fighters)
• No. 26 Squadron
• No. 135 Helicopter Unit (Apache AH-64E attack helicopters)

Pathankot AFS was the target of a terrorist attack in 2016, highlighting its strategic importance.

9. Palam Air Force Station (New Delhi)

Situated in New Delhi, this airbase mainly operates VIP and emergency aircraft. It is home to:

• No. 41 Squadron (transport aircraft)
• VVIP flights for top government officials

10. Sirsa Air Force Station

Located in Haryana, Sirsa AFS operates Su-30MKI fighter jets under No. 21 Squadron ("Avengers"). This base is a forward support unit for Western Air Command’s defense operations.

11. Sarangpur Air Force Station

Located in Western Uttar Pradesh, this airbase is home to:

• No. 117 Helicopter Unit (operating ALH Dhruv helicopters)
• No. 152 Helicopter Unit (operating Mi-17 helicopters)

This base is critical for quick response and search-and-rescue operations.

12. Hindon Air Force Station

Hindon AFS, located near Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh, is the largest airbase in Asia. It hosts:

• No. 131 Squadron (operating AN-32 aircraft)
• No. 191 Squadron (operating Avro aircraft)
• No. 77 Squadron (operating C-130J Super Hercules)
• No. 81 Squadron (operating C-17 Globemaster III)

Hindon AFS also serves as the venue for the IAF's annual Air Force Day parade.

13. Suratgarh Air Force Station

The only WAC airbase in Rajasthan, Suratgarh AFS is home to:

• No. 23 Squadron (operating MiG-21 Bison fighter jets)

This base plays a key role in border security operations.

14. Udhampur Air Force Station

Located in Jammu & Kashmir, Udhampur AFS is home to:

• No. 132 Helicopter Unit (operating Cheetah helicopters)
• No. 153 Helicopter Unit (operating Mi-17 helicopters)

This base provides air support to the Indian Army’s Northern Command.

15. Bhatinda Air Force Station

Located in Punjab, this base has played a role in various DRDO (Defense Research & Development Organization) projects. It was crucial in testing the TAPAS UAV and other military technologies.

16. Raja Sansi Air Force Station

Located in Amritsar, Punjab, this base primarily serves as a forward base support unit. It operates alongside the Amritsar International Airport, ensuring both military and civilian coordination.

Western Air Command in Major Operations

WAC has played a key role in several military operations, including:
✅ Indo-Pak Wars of 1947, 1965, and 1971
✅ Sino-Indian War of 1962
✅ Operation Pawan (Sri Lanka, 1987-1990)
✅ Operation Meghdoot (Siachen, 1984-Present)
✅ Operation Safed Sagar (Kargil, 1999)

Current Commander: Air Marshal Vivek Ram Chaudhari (PVSM, AVSM, VM) leads WAC, ensuring its combat readiness and strategic effectiveness.

Conclusion

The Western Air Command is the backbone of the Indian Air Force, ensuring national security and operational dominance in the western sector. With its advanced fighter jets, transport aircraft, and strategic airbases, WAC continues to be a formidable force in India's defense network.

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