Hyderabad: The Navigation Training School (NTS) at Air Force Station Begumpet will celebrate its Platinum Jubilee on March 1, marking 75 years of dedicated service to the nation. NTS, known as ‘TERNS,’ is one of the oldest training establishments in the Indian Air Force (IAF), with a rich history reflecting military diplomacy, fortitude, courage, daring, devotion, and professionalism.
Established in 1946 as Air Navigation School, RIAF, at Royal Indian Air Force Station Tambaram, it initially focused on ground subjects without a flying element. After Independence, the school moved to No.2 Air Force Academy, Jodhpur, and became ‘Air Navigation Squadron,’ hosting the first Navigators course in March 1949. In 1963, it merged with Signallers’ Training, becoming ‘Navigation and Signals School.’ The unit relocated to its current site at Air Force Station Begumpet, Secunderabad, in 1967. Over the years, NTS evolved its training methodology to enhance the operational capabilities of the IAF.The Platinum Jubilee celebration includes a seminar on March 1, followed by an air display featuring the Akashganga Para Diving Team and Air Warrior Drill Team on March 2. Air Marshal R Radhish, Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief Training Command, IAF, will release a ‘Special Cover’ to honour veterans and senior officers associated with the unit. Serving and retired alumni are expected to attend the festivities. (INN)