Hindon, Amidst possibility of two-front war with China and Pakistan, Indian Air Force Chief ACM BS Dhanoa on Monday said air combat equipment like Rafale, S-400 missile, apache helicopter and Chinook will enhance India’s air defence capabilities.
It is pertinent to note here that India and Russia signed a deal of 5.3 billion dollars last week for purchase of S-400 air defence missile systems inspite of threat on imposing sanctions from the United States.
Addressing the air warriors here, ACM Dhanoa said, “The acquisition of 36 Rafale aircraft, S -400 missile system, Apache and Chinook heavy lift helicopters will further enhance our capabilities, the ongoing induction of Tejas-LCA, spider surface medium surface to air- state of art weapon system are part of our latest modernization program.”
Indian Air Force on Monday celebrated its 86th raising day with demonstrating its air display in the presence of over 5000 audience here. The chief also assured the nation that the Indian sky is safe and also ready to meet any contingency.
“IAF is at present ready to meet any contingency that challenge the defence of our country. In the year gone by IAF continued to grow from scent to scent and achieve numbers of operational milestones. While we are proud of our past and the good work of our predecessors, we will not deviate from primary focus that to build and maintain an effective air force for the present and future,” he said.
In a bid stay ever ready for any eventuality, the chief said, “We are in process to acquire new combat system. We are upgrading and modernizing our existing inventory aircraft and weapon systems. With an aim to equip them with latest avionics and technology so that they can be remain contemporary. The midlife upgradation of Mirage- 2000, MiG 29 and Jaguar fleet is already underway.”
He also appreciated the defence public sector unit for their continued support in providing all the resources and products. “This has been possible due to good planning and dedicated efforts of our air warriors as well as continues support by defence public sector undertakings- HAL, BEL & DRDO.”
Earlier, the chief reviewed the parade. The parade was followed by an air display and acrobatics by the Air Force’s various aircraft, including Jaguar, Bison, MiG-29, Mirage-2000 and SU-30 MKI fighter jets and Rudra helicoptors.