Induction of C-130J, Mi-17V5 has added value to IAF's strategic airlift capability: Browne (update: IAF/Anniversary)

Emphasizing that the induction of the C-130J Special Ops aircraft and Mi-17V5 helicopter fleet has added significant value to the strategic airlift capability of the Indian Air Force, Air Chief Marshal N.A.K.Browne on Tuesday said these aircraft are now actively engaged in executing important operational missions across the length and breadth of the country.

Speaking on the occasion of the 81st anniversary of the founding of the IAF here, Air Chief Marshal Browne said the landing of the C-130J Special Ops aircraft at Daulat Beg Oldie (DBO) I in Ladakh should be seen as a significant achievement in the history of the force as well as the nation.

"The induction of C-17 Globemaster at this very base last month has extended our operational flexibility manifold. We have also inducted the Pilatus PC-7 basic trainer aircraft and advanced simulators to address the contemporary training needs of our next generation air warriors," he said.

Air Chief Marshal Browne further said that the V5 helicopters would be soon inducted to boost air support effort for anti-Naxal operations.

"The contract negotiations for the MMRCA aircraft and the operational clearance missions for the LCA are also progressing with the LCA achieving its IOC before this year-end. These along with the ongoing upgrade projects on the MiG-29, Mirage-2000, Jaguar and An-32 will significantly enhance our future operational potential" he added.

He further revealed that while airborne assets are being expanded, the IAF is also planning to strengthen the country's air defence network.

"The integration of AWACS and the other sensors alongwith the ground based weapon systems as also the progress made in the Phase II of Integrated Air Command and Control System (IACCS) has taken us step closer to our goal of having Network Centric Operations," Air Chief Marshal Browne said.

"As a transforming air force, we are extremely conscious of the future operational, technological and maintenance challenges, as well as the need to factor in the fiscal realities of the day. Therefore, we must maintain our focus on achieving enhanced reliability and maintainability of all our assets," he said.

"Many proactive initiatives have already been taken ranging from instituting long term spares supply and repair agreements to upgradation of our existing Base Repair Depots. Another important focus area is the upgradation of our operational infrastructure and special emphasis has also been laid towards strengthening this aspect in the North as well as north eastern sectors," he added.

"It is my firm belief that while hardware is important, ultimately it would be the 'people' who will convert this potential into actual employable capabilities. It is therefore, important for us to maintain a balanced perspective," Browne said.

"Instead of mainly focussing on technology, there is a need to devote a major share of our attention to our people. As leaders of men, you invest time and effort in nurturing, grooming, mentoring and training your subordinates. Guided by the IAF's vision and core values, work towards fostering the "air warrior spirit" and building cohesive and winning teams in your respective domains. I am confident that each one of you will take on this important task as your sacred responsibility and in this manner contribute effectively to the future growth of the IAF," he concluded.