India has 'Plan B', ready for any challenge from China: Air Force chief

Air force chief Air Chief Marshal B.S. Dhanoa on Thursday said India is prepared to counter any threat from China and was also ready to face a two-front war.

Addressing the annual press conference of the IAF ahead of Air Force Day, the IAF chief said they have a 'Plan B' to cater for the shortage of strength if there is a situation of war on two fronts.

"We need a strength of 42 squadrons to carry out full spectrum operations, but it doesn't mean we can't fight a two-front scenario. There is a Plan B," he said when asked about being prepared for a two-front war.

He also said the possibility of a two-front war in the current geopolitical scenario is low.

He said "our capability is adequate" to counter any threat from the Eastern side -- China.

The Air Force chief also said more than assets, the question was what China can and cannot do operating from Tibet against India.

He also said that Chinese troops are still stationed in the Chumbi valley, of which Doklam is a part, and hoped that they return soon.

Dhanoa said: "We are not in physical face-off but in Chumbi valley their troops are still deployed."

"Hope they will withdraw in future after their exercises are over," the IAF chief said.

He also said that there was no face-off in the air during the over 70 days long standoff and there were no air violations.

"I take this opportunity to assure the nation of our sacred resolve in defending the sovereignty of our skies," he added.

--IANS

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