Air Chief Marshal V R Chaudhari, Chief of Air Staff, emphasized the Indian Air Force’s (IAF) dynamic approach to address challenges along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) amid the border tensions with China. Speaking at a press conference ahead of Air Force Day on October 8, he highlighted the IAF’s commitment to remain deployed along the frontier until complete disengagement occurs in contested areas.
Addressing concerns about China’s military infrastructure expansion and air assets deployment along the LAC, Air Chief Marshal Chaudhari stated that the IAF continually monitors the situation using Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) mechanisms. He noted that the IAF’s operational plans are highly dynamic and adapt to evolving situations. In areas where the IAF cannot match the adversary’s numbers or strength, they rely on better tactics and training.
The Air Chief Marshal emphasized that the IAF maintains flexibility in its deployment of assets along the LAC, guided by ISR inputs. He mentioned the deployment of mountain radars to enhance border surveillance.
Regarding acquisitions to bolster the IAF’s operational capabilities, Air Chief Marshal Chaudhari mentioned the upcoming conclusion of a contract to procure 97 Tejas Mark 1A aircraft at a cost of approximately ₹1.15 lakh crore. He also highlighted plans to induct military platforms, equipment, and defense hardware worth ₹2.5 lakh crore to ₹3 lakh crore in the next seven to eight years.
Regarding the S-400 missile systems from Russia, Air Chief Marshal Chaudhari reported that the IAF has received three units and expects to receive the remaining two by next year.
The Chief of Air Staff described the Indo-Pacific region as the “new economic and strategic center of gravity” and stressed the IAF’s critical role in projecting India’s strength in the region. He emphasized the importance of a strong and credible military in the face of a volatile geopolitical landscape.
Air Chief Marshal Chaudhari discussed the transformation of modern warfare due to technological advancements and the IAF’s focus on force multipliers, artificial intelligence-based decision tools, electronic warfare equipment, robust networks, space, and cyber capabilities. He also mentioned the IAF’s commitment to Atmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India) and its contribution to enhancing indigenization and defense production.
The Chief of Air Staff highlighted the IAF’s focus areas, including persistent surveillance capability, sensor-to-shooter time, long-range precision weapons, and the development of multi-domain capability. He also celebrated the induction of the first C-295 aircraft as a significant milestone in boosting India’s defense industry.
Air Chief Marshal Chaudhari’s remarks underscored the IAF’s preparedness and adaptability in addressing border challenges and enhancing its operational capabilities.