THE IAF’s prompt actions in response to developments in eastern Ladakh last year were a testament to its combat readiness and its ongoing capability enhancement programme is aimed at achieving desired results “swiftly and decisively” across domains, Chief of Air Staff Air Chief Marshal V R Chaudhary said on Friday.

In an address on the occasion of the 89th Air Force Day, he also strongly called for upgrading the training modules for air warriors and asked senior officials to invest time and efforts in “nurturing and empowering” their subordinates and young officers and to consider it as their primary task. Referring to the tri-services integration, Air Chief Marshal Chaudhary also “assured,” the nation of the Indian Air Force’s “unwavering commitment” towards delivering joint capability and generating integrated response options as a part of a coherent national strategy.

Chief of Defence Staff Gen Bipin Rawat, Army Chief Gen M M Naravane and several top officials of the three services and the Defence Ministry were among those present at the event.

The IAF also carried out a spectacular air display showcasing its vintage aircraft and modern fleet on the occasion.

On the modernisation plans of the IAF, the chief of Air Staff pitched for “creative and skilful” employment of new-age capabilities through the development of unique tactics and “out-of-the-box” operational plans and training programmes to gain mastery over modern trends of aerial warfare.

“As our challenges continue to rise, so does our strength and resolve to ensure best possible application of air power. When I look at the security scenario that we face today, I am acutely conscious that I have assumed the command at a crucial time,” he said at the Air Force Day parade held at the Hindon airbase on the outskirts of Delhi. “We must demonstrate to the nation that external forces will not be allowed to violate our territory. I pledge to do all I can to provide you with clear direction, good leadership and the best of resources that I can muster,” he said. Air Chief Marshal Chaudhary said the year gone by was “quite challenging yet extremely rewarding”. “The prompt actions in response to developments in eastern Ladakh were a testament to the Indian Air Force’s combat readiness. Our efforts in completing all COVID-related tasks was also a major achievement in support of national efforts,” he said.

Following the escalation in tension in eastern Ladakh, the IAF deployed almost all its frontline fighter jets in key air bases in eastern Ladakh.