India-China Lac Row: The Indian Air Force (IAF) is set to bolster its capabilities with a range of domestically produced military equipment. Air Chief Marshal VR Chaudhari announced plans to introduce various systems, including mountain radars, long-range surface-to-air missiles, new fighter jets, upgraded combat planes, light combat helicopters, tactical ballistic missiles, trainer aircraft, and close-in weapon systems. These acquisitions are primarily intended to enhance security along the disputed border with China.
The modernization efforts will span several years and are projected to cost up to ₹3 lakh crore (approximately $40 billion USD), with ₹41,180 crore ($5.5 billion USD) allocated for the current year. Key procurement plans include the acquisition of 97 more Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Mk-1A and 156 Prachand light combat helicopters, along with the upgrade of 84 Sukhoi-30 fighter jets.
The IAF will continue to be deployed along the disputed border until a complete disengagement is achieved
Chaudhari noted that the situation along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) with China remains unchanged from last year. The IAF will continue to be deployed along the disputed border until a complete disengagement is achieved. The India-China border standoff, which began in May 2020, is yet to see a full resolution through ongoing negotiations.
To monitor the border situation, the IAF employs persistent intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR). Chaudhari highlighted China’s extensive air defense network along the border, which includes numerous radars and surface-to-air guided weapons. In response, the IAF is working on its own mountain radar project and deploying low-level lightweight radars strategically.
Chaudhari emphasized the need for a strong and credible military due to the volatile and uncertain geopolitical landscape in the Indo-Pacific region. The IAF, with its capabilities to observe, react swiftly, and execute effectively, plays a pivotal role in projecting India’s strength in the region, particularly in light of the evolving challenges and opportunities in the Indo-Pacific.
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