IAF ready if two-front war breaks out: Air Chief Marshal Dhanoa

Chief of the Air Staff Air Chief Marshal B.S. Dhanoa on Thursday said that the Indian Air Force (IAF) is capable of fighting a two-front war in full synergy.

Dhanoa, while addressing the media at IAF's annual press conference here, said any decision on surgical strike involving the IAF has to be taken by the government, adding that they are "ready to take on any challenge."

"We need 42 squadrons to carry out a full spectrum of operations in case of a two-front war. By 2032, we will meet this requirement. For now, we have a Plan B, and that is to work in synergy with two sister armed forces," he said.

"A surgical strike is a decision that has to be taken by the Government of India. The IAF has the capability to carry out a full spectrum of air operations," he added.

Further stressing on the same, the Chief of Air Staff asserted that the IAF is prepared to fight with the other two sister services at short notice in full synergy, should the need arise.

He also asserted that the Chinese forces are still deployed in Tibet's Chumbi Valley post the Doklam stand-off, adding that they are expected to withdraw as the summer exercise gets over.

The IAF chief said the air force has the capability to "locate, fix and strike across the border," when asked about issue of tactical nuclear weapon of Pakistan.

"Our losses during the peace time are a cause of concern. We are making concentrated efforts to minimise accidents and preserve our assets," he added.