Tactics and Air Combat Defence Establishment or TACDE is an Indian Air Force unit for training aerial combat to its top one percent fighter pilots. TACDE is based in Gwalior. It was conferred Presidential standard in 2009. The institution evolves tactical procedures for various aircraft, implements standard operating procedures and trains pilots in operational doctrines. It is similar to Topgun of the US Navy.
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History
TACDE was founded by Wing Commander A.K Mukherjee. It was established in 1971 from previously formed Tactics and Combat Development and Training Squadron at Adampur, Punjab. It got re-designated as TACDE in December 1972. The institutions has numerous awards and honors including Vir Chakra and Kirti Chakra. TACDE was awarded ‘Battle Honours’ by the President of India in 1995 for its role in the Indo-Pak conflict of 1971.