New Delhi

Addressing the Combined Graduation Parade at the Air Force Academy in Dundigal near Hyderabad, Singh observed that military superiority is no longer determined solely by the size of a nation's armed forces.

"Earlier, it seemed that the big powers had a decisive edge on the battlefield. But now, comparatively, even small powers can cause heavy losses with their small but dangerous weapons and new tactics," he said, urging newly commissioned officers to be prepared for every form of conflict.

Highlighting the transformation in combat scenarios, Singh noted that traditional warfare involving visible deployment of troops and heavy equipment has increasingly given way to technology-driven operations. Modern battlefields, he said, are shaped by systems such as radars, satellites, drones, sensors and robotics.

He further pointed out that contemporary conflicts have demonstrated how even civilian infrastructure, including traffic systems and CCTV networks, can become targets or tools of warfare.

"The definition of warfare has changed to a great extent," Singh said, stressing that officers must understand modern military strategies, adapt to changing realities, adopt new approaches and amend existing practices whenever necessary.

The Defence Minister emphasised that hard work alone is insufficient in today's environment, underscoring the importance of smart work and technological competence. Nations that effectively harness innovation and emerging technologies, he said, are positioning themselves at the forefront of global power.

Referring to the Indian Air Force's achievements, Singh cited the example of astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla and described the force as a source of inspiration for millions of Indians. He also lauded the growing participation of women in the IAF, saying the increasing number of female pilots has made the force "more powerful, balanced and robust," reflecting the strength of an inclusive military.

Singh praised the Air Force's role in humanitarian assistance and disaster relief missions, including rescue operations involving foreign nationals, saying such efforts showcase India's cultural values and ethos on the global stage.

The ceremony marked the successful completion of pre-commissioning training for flight cadets across different branches of the Indian Air Force. Singh, who reviewed the parade, awarded the President's Commission to the graduating trainees.

READ MORE: BBC ranks Hafiz Ahmed's Bagurumba photo as second-best image of 2026

The event also included the presentation of Wings and Brevets to flight cadets of the IAF, officers and trainees from the Indian Navy, Indian Coast Guard and the Socialist Republic of Vietnam. He additionally presented the President's Plaque to cadets securing the top position in the overall order of merit in the Flying, Navigation and Ground Duty branches.