CHENNAI: Everyone present at the Chengalpattu Field Firing Range experienced a slice of what it might be like in a warzone here on Saturday. Paratroopers and snipers in full camouflage gear added to the atmosphere.As part of the Officer’s Training Academy’s Golden Jubilee celebrations, a joint display by Air Force and Army personnel was held at the Hanumanthapuram ground. The demonstration displayed the fire-power of the infantry of the Indian Army along with a spectacular skydiving routine.This programme is held twice a year as part of OTA training, but it was open to the public for the first time. “The basic purpose is to demonstrate the speed, precision and flexibility that the Army and Air Force have to maintain in a real time scenario,” said Lt Gen SS Jog, Commandant of the OTA.One cadet from OTA and five paratroopers performed the first round of skydiving. Unfurling the OTA flag, the paratroopers executed perfect landings. Seven members of the elite paratroopers, Akash Ganga, performed rolls, toggles and other manoeuvres—much to the delight of the admiring public. A tri-colour parachute formation with three members drew heavy applause.A consolidated demonstration of fire-power included rocket launchers, short-range missile launchers, bayonets, anti-personnel mines, flares, claymore mines and Molotov cocktails. Close to 500 members of the general public, in addition to a few companies of NCC cadets and the families and friends of military personnel were present at the display.
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