Agnipath Scheme – Indian Air Force Agniveer X (Technical) Group

The Indian Air Force Agniveer X Group (Technical) recruits Agniveers for technical trades including Aircraft Technician (Mechanical), Aircraft Technician (Electrical and Instruments), Ground Support Equipment Technician, and other aviation technical roles. X Group Agniveers are responsible for the maintenance and servicing of IAF aircraft, avionics systems, weapons systems, and ground support equipment. They receive highly specialised technical training at the Air Force Technical College and various training establishments.

Candidates must have passed Class 12 (10+2) with Physics and Mathematics as compulsory subjects, along with English. A minimum aggregate of 50% in the qualifying examination is required. Candidates who have passed a 3-year diploma from a government-polytechnic in Engineering (Mechanical, Electrical, Electronics, Automobile, Computer Science, Instrumentation Technology, Information Technology) are also eligible. The age limit is 17.5 to 21 years.

The X Group written test is considered harder than most enrolled soldier exams because it tests Physics and Mathematics at Class 12 level with questions comparable in difficulty to JEE Mains aspirants. The 70-question exam in 60 minutes — covering English (20 questions), Physics (25 questions), and Mathematics (25 questions) — demands both conceptual understanding and computational speed. Questions on differentiation, integration, electrostatics, and modern Physics appear regularly and require solid Class 11–12 preparation.

After completing the mandatory 4-year Agnipath service tenure, approximately 25% of each batch of Air Force Agniveers are selected for enrolment in the regular Indian Air Force as permanent airmen. Selection for retention is based on merit evaluated through performance assessments, disciplinary record, fitness tests, and optional examination during service. Retained Agniveers are enrolled with full regular service benefits including pension after 15 years of qualifying service.

Physical standards for IAF Agniveer X Group include minimum height of 152.5 cm, weight proportionate to height as per IAF standards, and minimum chest measurement of 77 cm with 5 cm expansion. Eyesight requirement for X Group is 6/6 in one eye and 6/9 in the other (without glasses), correctable to 6/6 with glasses. Candidates must also pass a physical fitness test at the selection centre. Colour vision is tested as certain technical trades require normal colour perception.