Hindon, Oct 8 : The Indian Air Force displayed its combat readiness with its “prompt action” in response to developments in eastern Ladakh, Air Chief Marshal VR Chaudhari said on Friday. In his address on the 89th Air Force Day, the Chief of Air Staff said external forces will not be allowed to violate Indian territory.
“The year gone by has been quite challenging, yet extremely rewarding. Prompt action in response to developments in Eastern Ladakh was a testament of the Air Force’s combat readiness,” the Air Force Chief said.
Addressing the air warriors at the Hindon Airbase, he said the IAF “must demonstrate to the nation that external forces will not be allowed to violate its territory.”
“Security environment in our region and beyond has been impacted by complex interplay of geo-political forces. Advent of new domains over traditional domains of land, sea and air have resulted in a paradigm shift in the way operations will be conducted,” he said.
“As our challenges continue to rise, so does our strength and resolve to ensure the best possible application of air power. When I look at the security scenario that we face today, I am acutely conscious that I have assumed command at a crucial time,” he said.
The IAF chief also mentioned the fight against Covid and said fulfilling the tasks given to them was a major achievement for the force in support of the national efforts. He also said that the IAF is in support of integration of the forces.
“The Indian Air Force remains steadfast in its view that integrated jointness is the way ahead. It also believes that all organs of national power must be synergised,” he said.
The Indian Air Force celebrated its 89th foundation day on Friday. Chief of Defence Staff General Bipin Rawat and Army Chief General MM Navarane were also present at the event at the Hindon Airbase.
The event at the Hindon Airbase also included an air display, where the IAF showed its might with fighter jets like Rafale, Tejas, Jaguars, Mig-29, Su-30, helicopters including the Chinook, Apache, and Mi-35, and transport aircraft like C-17 and C-130J.
