Aviators, Not Machines, Win Wars: Lt Gen Seth Underscores Human Edge in Modern Combat

Reasserting the primacy of human skill in an era dominated by technological advancement, Lieutenant General Dhiraj Seth, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Southern Command, declared that no machine can replace the intellect and resolve of an aviator. “Machines do not win battles but the skill, the judgment and the resolve of the aviators operating them,” he said while reviewing the Passing-out Parade at the Combat Army Aviation Training School (CAATS) on Friday.

Lt Gen Seth noted that the nature of warfare is undergoing a profound transformation, shaped by precision targeting, contested air spaces, multi-domain operations and missions unfolding at high operational tempo. In such an environment, he said, the Army Aviation Corps provides a critical third dimension that significantly enhances battlefield effectiveness.

He emphasised that the Corps’ mix of helicopters and remotely piloted aircraft offers commanders unmatched operational reach—from reconnaissance and surveillance to precision strikes, troop lift and support to ground operations. These integrated capabilities, he added, cement army aviation’s role as a decisive combat multiplier.

While acknowledging upcoming technological inductions that promise to further strengthen operational readiness, Lt Gen Seth stressed that modern platforms alone cannot ensure victory. “Even with the most cutting-edge capability, the enduring truth is that it is the aviator who makes the difference,” he said. He added that the designation of CAATS as the Army’s centre of expertise for RPA operations and combat air manoeuvre reflects this focus on sharpening human proficiency alongside technological growth.

Offering guidance to the newly commissioned aviators, Lt Gen Seth underscored the need for professionalism and adherence to safety. Each sortie, he said, demands absolute situational awareness, strict compliance with procedures and unwavering respect for the aircraft. “In combat flying, the margins are thin and the stakes are high. Never cross the red lines or take decisions that compromise safety or mission objectives,” he warned.

The ceremony marked a significant milestone as CAATS hosted its first-ever combined passing out of officers from the Combat Aviation Course (CAC), Army Helicopter Instructor’s Course (AHIC) and the inaugural Combined Internal Pilot and Observers Course.

Among the achievers, Capt Ajit Singh was named the Best Cadet of the Combined IP/OB Course. Captain Kushal Sharma earned the ‘Silver Cheetah’ trophy for topping the Combat Aviators Course, while Maj Paramveer Singh Shekhawat secured the ‘First in Order of Merit’ distinction in the AHIC.

The event concluded with an impressive combat aviation demonstration featuring coordinated manoeuvres by helicopters, RPAs, hexacopters, infantry personnel and armoured units, drawing enthusiastic applause from those in attendance.