Addressing air warriors and veterans on the eve of the IAF’s 94th anniversary at Subroto Park: Reports
NEW DELHI: Outgoing Indian Air Force Chief Air Chief Marshal A.P. Singh on Wednesday said the IAF was moving in the “right direction” but needed to accelerate capability induction amid rapidly evolving technology.
Addressing air warriors and veterans on the eve of the IAF’s 94th anniversary at Subroto Park, Air Chief Marshal Singh said the force needed “greater capacity, faster induction and more combat mass”.
He said the IAF had shifted in recent years from a platform-centric to a capability-centric approach, with greater emphasis on integration.
The approach had proved its worth during Operation Sindoor, he said.
The IAF chief said progress was being made in capability enhancement but acknowledged delays in some projects.
“I am happy that we are progressing in the right direction, but whether we are progressing at the correct pace is something for everybody to judge. Yes, we can be a little faster than we are today,” he said.
He also referred to delays in the LCA Mk-1A programme.
Air Chief Marshal Singh said operations had tested the IAF, military exercises had stretched it, humanitarian assistance and disaster relief missions had taken it beyond national borders and air diplomacy had expanded partnerships.
