Kochi: The Passing out Parade (PoP) of 63rd Aeronautical Engineers was conducted on July 22. A total of 18 officers comprising 15 officers from the Indian Navy and three from Coast Guard passed out from the portals of Naval Institute of Aeronautical Technology (NIAT) at Naval Base, here.

The passing out parade was reviewed by Rear Admiral Rajesh Dhankhar, Flag Officer Sea Training, Headquarters Southern Naval Command.

The trainee officers underwent 52 weeks of intensive training in advanced aeronautical subjects besides practical training on various types of aircraft operated by the Indian Navy and Coast Guard. Sub Lieutenant Navdeep Kumar and Deputy Commandant Kaveesh Chawla were awarded trophies for standing first in overall order of merit amongst Air Engineering and Air Electrical officers respectively.

The Admiral in his address said that it was a great honour and privilege for all Air Technical Officers and sailors to graduate from the portals of NIAT, which is also the ‘Centre of Excellence for Aeronautical Science and Technology’ of Cochin University of Science and Technology. He said that the alumni of this fine Institute had brought many laurels to the Indian Navy by their professionalism and dedication.

He also emphasised on the importance of maintaining professional competence, whilst keeping abreast with the latest technologies, inculcating basic Service ethos and leading by personal example. While congratulating the award winners, the Admiral lauded the efforts of the Institute and ‘Team NIAT’ for ensuring high standards of excellence in aviation professional training and rendering 65 years of yeoman service to Naval Aviation.