Need to enhance capabilities in view of dynamic strategic environment: IAF Chief Chaudhari

Air Chief Marshal VR Chaudhari on Sunday called on his force to refine its strategy, enhance all-round capabilities and develop a flexible mindset to 'prosecute' possible future wars, considering the current 'complex' and 'dynamic' strategic environment.

In an address to air warriors on the occasion of Air Force Day, the Chief of Air Staff said the current geopolitical landscape has provided the force an opportunity to reduce dependency on imports by developing indigenous capability.

Air Chief Marshal Chaudhari also underlined the need for understanding the nuances of evolving air power, 'setting the pace to preserve peace and if and when necessary, to fight and win wars.'

He said the world is changing at a rapid pace and the IAF must meet all new challenges coming its way.

"In this complex and dynamic strategic environment, refining our strategy, building robust all round capabilities and more importantly, developing a flexible mindset to prosecute future wars will prove decisive", he said at the event where he also unveiled the new ensign of the force.

"In our quest for becoming an air and space force, we must recognise the importance of the space domain and continue developing our space capabilities", he said.

The IAF Chief stressed that innovation must be part of our DNA to enable the force to easily adapt to emerging threats and challenges.

"We must hold ourselves to the highest standards in every facet of our operations, training, maintenance and administration. We must strive to be leaders in technology and innovation. We must invest in cutting edge research, development and acquisition to build technological superiority. Innovation must become a part of our DNA, enabling us to easily adapt to emerging threats and challenges", he said.

Underlining the need to candidly assess and address any inhibitions to change, he said joint planning and integrated application of combat power will be the sine-qua-non of future wars.

"Developing unique tactics, carrying out realistic training and incorporating relevant lessons learnt will go a long way", he said, adding that, "From multi-domain operations to hybrid warfare, the air force needs to recognise that modern warfare transcends traditional boundaries. We must seamlessly integrate air, space, cyber and ground capabilities to dominate the battle space".

He said over the past nine decades, the IAF has constantly evolved and transformed into one of the finest air forces in the world.

"But is that enough? If India is on the path to become a developed nation by 2047, then IAF must be one of the best, if not the best, by the time we complete 100 years in 2032. The vision, as laid down in our doctrine, is to be an agile and adaptable air force that provides decisive aerospace power in furtherance of our national interests,' he said.

"We must reform, or become a relic; we must innovate, else become mundane and we must transform, else become irrelevant", he added.

Urging all to strive for excellence in everything they do, he said this is non-negotiable.

On Angiveers, the Chief of Air Staff said, 'We have successfully inducted the first batch of Agniveers and subsequent batches, including women Agniveers, are presently undergoing basic training.

The rigour of training has been increased across the board for all training curriculums with more emphasis on self-learning and self-education, he noted.

Detailing the exercises carried out by the IAF, he said, "In this year alone, the IAF has carried out eight exercises across the globe with friendly foreign countries and performed exceptionally well".

"For the first time our indigenously built LCAs (light combat aircrafts) have participated in an overseas exercise, showcasing our professional acumen and enhancing our stature as a potent Air Force. IAF carried out extensive operations in Turkiye, Sudan and Syria airlifting critical supplies and rescuing stranded Indian nationals. As first responders, we have always maintained a high state of alert and taken on all emerging situations", he said.

Noting that the theme for this year’s Air Force Day is IAF- Air Power Beyond Boundaries, he said it aptly reflected the inherent global reach of air power and how air power will prove decisive in future conflicts.

"Air Force operations extend worldwide, providing rapid mobility and global reach that allows a nation to project air power beyond boundaries in the form of rapid deployment and peacekeeping missions. We need to understand the nuances of evolving air power, setting the pace to preserve peace and if and when necessary, to fight and win wars", he said.

He said "Our people are our most valuable asset" and there was a need to prioritise well-being, professional development and readiness of air warriors above everything else.

Air Chief Marshal Chaudhari also asked his force to continue to foster a culture of discipline, integrity and remain ever vigilant in the face of emerging threats.

"Our commitment to the defence of our nation remains steadfast and we will continue to protect our territory, deter potential adversaries and ensure the safety and security of our people", he said.

"The Indian Air Force is not just a military force, it is a symbol of our nation's collective strength and determination", he said.

Noting that they have inherited the proud legacy of professionalism, perseverance, and passion curated by predecessors, he said, "The last year has brought a fair share of challenges our way and I am happy to note that the IAF has performed exceedingly well and turned those challenges into opportunities".

The Air Chief said ethical leadership should be the cornerstone of our organisation.

'We must lead by example and uphold our core values of mission, integrity and excellence in all that we do. My vision is one of strength, adaptability and unwavering commitment to our nation and its people", he added.