Defence Minister Rajnath Singh underscored the indispensable role of the Indian Air Force (IAF) in bolstering national sovereignty during his address at the Air Force Commanders’ Conference held in Delhi. He called upon senior leadership within the IAF to prioritize operational preparedness and advance indigenous capabilities, reinforcing the government’s commitment to achieving ‘atmanirbharta’ or self-reliance in defense.
During his address, Singh emphasized the need for the Air Force to enhance processes related to capability and capacity building, ensuring they resonate with the broader national aspirations of the country. He commended the Air Force for its relentless professionalism and adaptability in responding effectively to evolving global challenges.
Before addressing the conference, Singh was welcomed by Chief of the Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal AP Singh, who provided a comprehensive briefing on the IAF’s current operational capabilities. The conference saw notable attendance from key defense officials, including Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan, Defence Secretary RK Singh, DRDO Chairman Dr. SV Kamat, and Secretary of Defence Production Sanjay Kumar, alongside the senior leadership of the Indian Air Force.
This ongoing conference serves as a vital platform for in-depth discussions surrounding critical operational, administrative, and strategic issues facing the IAF. It allows the leadership to evaluate contemporary challenges while strategizing future pathways to sustain excellence in airpower.
As part of the conference proceedings, IAF leaders will also engage with chiefs from the Army and Navy, highlighting the imperative of operational synergy among the three branches of the armed forces. This collaborative approach is aimed at fostering a unified front in ensuring national security in an increasingly complex geopolitical landscape.
