Indian Air Force and IIT Bombay signed a unique MoA on 2nd September, 2026. It has defined a collaborative framework for Air Force Test Pilot School (AFTPS) at Aircraft and Systems Testing Establishment (ASTE) of IAF to work in consonance with academic and technological prowess infused with research capabilities of IIT Bombay towards Master’s Degree for Flight Test Crew (Test Pilots and Fight Test Engineers).

This collaboration is a unique step in recognition of Flight Testing as an integral and important aspect in accelerating the growth of Military Aviation Industry in India, in line with the mission of ‘Atmanirbharta’.

This path breaking initiative of IAF and IIT Bombay is a stepping-stone for achieving operational readiness and deepening the technological self-reliance in the crucial military aerospace domain.

The MoA signing ceremony was presided over by Air Vice Marshal Ashish Srivastava, VM, VSM, ACAS (Projects), IAF and Prof. Shireesh Kedare, Director, IIT Bombay.