IAF to use new tool for selecting pilots

With the introduction of a new computerised system, testing potential pilots for the Indian Air Force (IAF) will go high-tech, with superior computers gauging higher accuracy than the simulators currently available in the market.

With the introduction of a new computerised system, testing potential pilots for the Indian Air Force (IAF) will go high-tech, with superior computers gauging higher accuracy than the simulators currently available in the market.

The IAF and Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) have joined hands to launch a new state-of-the-art system, called Computerised Pilot Selection System (CPSS), for screening potential pilots.

The CPSS has been developed by the Defence Institute of Psychological Research in New Delhi, while the hardware is currently being put together by the Aeronautical Development Establishmentu00a0 in the city.

Inside view of the cockpit

The CPSS will use a computerised version of an aptitude test a mini cockpit, which will test a pilot's psychomotor skills of handling pressure, dealing with emergencies and combat operations.

According to Ravi Kumar Gupta, Director, Directorate of Public Interface, DRDO, "The selection tool is in the form of a small cockpit. This tests the pilot's psychomotor and cognitive skills.
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This will be based on real-time experience from which pilots will be chosen." He added, "The project was taken up in 1998, and the idea was properly conceptualised in 2004.

The reason for the delay is that we needed to thoroughly test and validate it. That's why it has taken so long."

Gupta added, "We have selection centers in Varanasi, Dehradun and Mysore all of which will be given 20 systems each with spares just in case."

Retired Air Marshal and former combat pilot J S Gujral said, "I don't think it'll add to the pilots' pressure, because he isn't applying for a white collar job."

The system is expected to be operational in less than three years through which future pilots will be selected.
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The 80 systems that are currently being developed will cost the IAF Rs 25 crore, while production of a system costs Rs 20 lakh.