In response to evolving geopolitical circumstances, the Southern Air Command (SAC) was established in July 1984 to ensure efficient command and control of Indian Air Force (IAF) assets and enable swift deployment of combat forces in the Indian Ocean Region in case of emerging threats.
As part of a recent redeployment of IAF assets, a Helicopter Unit was officially incorporated into Air Force Station Thanjavur on March 19, 2024. Air Marshal B Manikantan AVSM VM, the Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief of SAC, graced the induction ceremony with his presence. This addition of the helicopter unit at Thanjavur is aimed at bolstering the operational capabilities of SAC by providing ample resources. Additionally, it will enable SAC to effectively carry out peacetime tasks such as Search and Rescue operations, Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR), and Casualty evacuation.
