FCC

CAS Inaugurates 16th ‘Jumbo’ Majumdar International Seminar

2025-03-05

Air Chief Marshal AP Singh, Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), inaugurated the 16th ‘Jumbo’ Majumdar International Seminar, organised by the Centre for Air Power Studies (CAPS), on 4 March 2025 at the Air Force Auditorium, New Delhi. The prestigious event, held annually, commemorates the legacy of the late Wing Commander Karun Krishna Majumdar, an iconic fighter pilot of pre-Independence India. This year’s theme, Evolving Dynamics of Aerospace Power, reflected the growing significance of air and space capabilities in contemporary warfare.

The seminar commenced with welcome remarks by Air Vice Marshal Anil Golani (Retd), Director General of CAPS, setting the stage for thought-provoking discussions. The event brought together distinguished experts, officials, researchers, and aviation enthusiasts, offering a platform to deliberate upon emerging trends, challenges, and technological advancements in aerospace warfare.

Key discussions at the seminar revolved around Integrated Aerospace Management, Effective Space Exploitation for achieving ‘Control of the Air’, and the strategic utilisation of drones and Manned-Unmanned Teaming (MUMT) in future conflicts. The deliberations also covered the increasing role of Electronic Warfare (EW) and Cyber Operations in aerial combat, as well as the Indian Air Force’s roadmap for inducting Emerging and Niche Technologies into its arsenal, including advancements towards fifth-generation aircraft. The insights shared by eminent panellists provided valuable perspectives on shaping India’s future air power strategy.

The seminar served as a crucial forum for stimulating intellectual discourse, fostering deeper engagement between the defence community and academia. The participation of young professionals alongside seasoned veterans ensured a dynamic exchange of ideas, reinforcing India’s commitment to strengthening its aerospace capabilities.

Industry and Market Outlook

The discussions at the seminar highlighted the rapid evolution of the aerospace and defence industry, driven by advancements in artificial intelligence, unmanned systems, and cyber warfare. As nations worldwide focus on air superiority and space-based operations, the demand for next-generation fighter aircraft, drone technologies, and electronic warfare systems is expected to witness a significant surge. India’s aerospace sector, bolstered by initiatives like Aatmanirbhar Bharat, is set to play a pivotal role in indigenising critical defence technologies and enhancing self-reliance in military aviation. With increased investments in research and development, partnerships with global players, and the expansion of indigenous production capabilities, the future of India’s aerospace domain looks promising, poised to establish the country as a formidable force in the global defence landscape.