As the national capital is gearing up to host the G20 Summit on September 9 and 10, the Indian Air Force (IAF) is taking extensive measures to safeguard the skies above the city. These measures include the deployment of advanced surveillance aircraft and combat jets.
The Indian Air Force is set to make the entire airspace over the national capital impenetrable. This formidable defense strategy involves the use of AWACS surveillance planes and the cutting-edge Rafale combat aircraft.
A senior defence official told India Today that the Air Force also plans to deploy state-of-the-art air defense missiles, such as the Medium Range Surface to Air Missile system (MRSAM) and the Akash air defense missile system.
To ensure swift response capabilities, fighter jets, including Rafales, have been placed on high alert at the operational readiness platform level. The Indian Air Force has also activated air bases in and around the national capital, including Hindan air base, as well as bases in Ambala, Bhatinda, Adampur, and Sirsa.
Furthermore, the Indian Air Force will utilise the indigenous NETRA
surveillance aircraft for enhanced monitoring.
To prevent any unauthorised drone activity, counter-drone systems have been deployed throughout the national capital. Civilian agencies are also collaborating to ensure strict enforcement of airspace security measures, minimising the risk of any violations.
The forthcoming G20 Summit, scheduled for September 9 and 10, is set to take place in New Delhi. This highly anticipated event will bring together member countries and guest nations to deliberate on a range of critical economic reforms.
The G20, formally known as the Group of 20, serves as an essential intergovernmental forum representing the world's major economies, encompassing both developed and developing nations. This year, India proudly holds the rotating presidency of this multinational assembly.
The G20 consists of a diverse array of nations, including Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, France, Germany, India, Indonesia, Italy, Japan, the Republic of Korea, Mexico, Russia, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Turkiye, the United Kingdom, the United States, and the European Union (EU).