IAF Emerging as a Network-Centric Warfare Power: Air Chief Marshall Arup Raha
New Delhi: The Indian Air Force (IAF) is becoming a superior network-centric warfare (NCW) power with the induction of a number of assets in the recent past.
Fire Power DemonstrationSpeaking at the IAF’s Fire Power Demonstration (FPD), Iron First, being held at the Pokhran ranges, Air Chief Marshal Arup Raha said IAF is transforming into a multi-faceted force.
“With the induction of new weapon platforms we have been training our air warriors in absorbing latest technologies. The aim is to achieve immediate operationalisation of weapon systems,” he said.
According to him, the IAF in the recent past has made its strategic footprint in many areas with the addition of new airlift capabilities.
He cited the examples of attack helicopters, home-grown products Tejas, LCH, Akash and Rohini radar set to add teeth to IAF’s future missions.
“The modernisation of air field infrastructure and communication network would give the IAF unprecedented operational advantage in the future. Our air defence network is being enhanced and the military and civil radars have been networked to Integrated Air Command and Control System,” Raha said.
Fire Power DemonstrationHe said the AWACS and desi AEW&C system has made a robust NCW force giving sharp end to nation’s military power.
“Future conflicts will witness joint operations and we need a lot of joint planning, joint training and execution. The Indian Army, the Indian Navy and the IAF are fully geared up for joint operations of any level. Today’s operation is just a tip off the iceberg,” the Chief added.
Light Combat Aircraft Tejas dropped a Laser-Guided Bomb and cleaned-up a ground target. The fighter also fired an R-73 air-to-air missile.
IAF said Tejas demonstrated its capability to switch over to an air defence role soon after undertaking ground attack missions. The Light Combat Helicopter fired rockets hitting the simulated targets.