Hindon (UP): The Indian Air Force is up and ready to fight a war at a short notice and can respond to any security challenge to the country in the most befitting manner, Air Chief Marshal B.S. Dhanoa said on Sunday.
Underscoring the technology thrust in the IAF, Dhanoa said the force was focused to become a technology intensive force in the next few years.
“We are in the process of acquiring new combat systems, upgrading and modernising our existing inventory of aircraft and weapons system with an aim to equip them with the latest avionics technology,” he said.
In this regard, he also mentioned the mid-life upgradation of various fighter jets, including the Mirage 2000, the MiG-29 and the Jaguar fleet.
“The acquisition of 36 Rafale aircraft in the next few years and an early decision on the indigenous fighter jet project will significantly enhance our operational capability," he said.
Separately, in a message published in an IAF booklet, Dhanoa said the uncertainties in the current environment in the region may require IAF to act in varied challenging situations.
The IAF also presented an impressive parade with its jets and helicopters giving a glimpse of the force’s lethal strike capability. The Air Chief Marshal also conferred Vayu Sena Medal to a number of IAF personnel.
