Defence Minister Rajnath Singh lauds IAF's role in challenging circumstances

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has appreciated the proactive response by the Indian Air force in bolstering its operational capabilities over the past few months. 

He stated that the professional manner in which Indian Air force conducted the air strikes in Balakot as well as rapid deployment of assets at forward locations in response to the prevailing situation in Eastern Ladakh has sent a strong message to the adversaries. 

Mr Singh was speaking after inaugurating the three day Air Force Commanders’ Conference in New Delhi yesterday. He alluded to the ongoing efforts for de-escalation on LAC and urged the Indian Air Force to stand ready to handle any eventuality.

The Defence Minister praised the stellar contribution by Indian Air Force in supporting the



nation’s response to COVID-19 pandemic. He highlighted the need to achieve self-reliance in defence production. Mr Singh lauded the progress made towards enhancing synergy and integration within the three services since the appointment of Chief of Defence Staff.

   

Speaking on the occasion, Chief of the Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal R K S Bhadauria stated that the Air Force was well prepared to counter short term as well as strategic threats. He said the units were evenly poised to counter any aggressive action by the adversary.

During the three day conference, commanders will review the current operational scenario and deployments before deliberating on building the Indian Air force capabilities in the next decade to tackle all emerging threats.